Chronicle Editor
Ashley Phiri, [email protected]
THE Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS) has been commended for its critical role in rehabilitating criminals and integrating them back into society with restored dignity and better life skills.
While some may view being incarcerated as an end of life, many inmates have testified to the life-transforming rehabilitation programmes they received while in prison.
On Tuesday, ZPCS held a successful “Prisons Day Programme” in Lupane centre where it showcased its programmes and afforded inmates to interact with the public and expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to learn more skills while in prison.
The colourful event saw various impressive displays by inmates, who have been honing their skills in various fields. Most prominently were intricately woven baskets, vibrant drums, and an array of fresh vegetables, all products of the inmates’ hard work and creativity.
Among the highlights of the day was a special recognition ceremony for inmates who completed a building course at Don Bosco Technical College in Hwange.
One of the inmates who received a certificate, Simbarashe Sibanda from Binga said the certificates prove their dedication and the support they received from the ZPCS.
“When I was incarcerated for murder in 2023 I thought my life had ended. I started to have hope when the ruling was overturned and became culpable homicide, meaning I would now serve three years in prison,” he said.
“The prison guards then identified me to do the building course at Don Bosco. I am thankful for this opportunity because before coming to prison I never thought I would one day have a certificate I can use to look for a job. I am really grateful to ZPCS for rehabilitating me.”
Another inmate who also received a building certificate, Qondani Ngwenya, from Victoria Falls said ZPCS was truly a correctional facility where they teach inmates how to live well with others.
“In prison, we are taught how to live well with others, the prison officers realise that we have made a mistake and they teach us how to be better people,” he said.
“I am also grateful to Don Bosco for accepting us to learn with students from within the community, we learned a lot from them.
“I used to see a lot of guys back home doing bush building and now I am doing building and certified for it, all thanks to ZPCS mission to rehabilitate and reintegrate us into the society.”
Another inmate, Prince Sibanda spoke about his journey, revealing how he has managed to provide for his family even from behind bars.
Working for Macdonald Bricks, he earns a wage that helps support his loved ones, proving that even in confinement, inmates can still take care of their families.
President of the National Chiefs Council, who was the guest of honour at the commemorations, Chief Mtshane Khumalo, delivered an inspiring address, commending the ZPCS for its commitment to restoring dignity to inmates.
He reflected on how the prison system has evolved since his youth, expressing his satisfaction at witnessing a more rehabilitative approach.
“It warms my heart to see inmates engaging with the community like this. I remember growing up in the 50s, inmates had no dignity,” said Chief Khumalo.
“I would pass next to the prison and grown men would be in a line, they would be naked and going through inspection, I don’t want to mention what kind of inspection but I am sure you have an idea.
“I am glad that these inmates are treated with dignity and even learn some skills and take care of their families while incarcerated. I would say some even have it better than people outside,” he said.
The day concluded with entertainment galore as the inmates from the 10 prisons in Matabeleland North showcased their singing and dancing skills. Popular musician Jeys Marabini also kept the crowd on their toes with his vibrant music.
Online Reporter