Story by Providence Maraneli
SUCCESSFULLY integrated former prison inmates have hailed the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services for its rehabilitation and skills training programmes after managing to establish businesses after release.
May be true to the saying that , life’s second chances are like a blank canvas , offering us the freedom to paint a new picture of our future, Arnold Mpofu, a former prison inmate at Kezi has become a shining example of a repentant and integrated former offender, after establishing a thriving fence making business in Maphisa.
“I was taught how to make fence when I was in prison and as soon as I got out I bought a machine to make fence and I have established a business, got married, bought myself a car and I am currently employing two people . I am really grateful to the Zimbabwe Prisons and correctional services,” Mpofuwe said.
Mpofu is not alone, other inmates who are still serving cannot wait to leave the prison walls to establish their businesses with the skills inculcated into them by the correctional services
“I never knew what I know now, I am going to establish my goat project with extensive knowledge I got from here,” said an inmate
Another added, “I am realising that we don’t have seedlings nurseries her in Gwanda, so as soon as I leave this place, that’s what I am going to do.”
Basking in the glory of these success stories, Matabeleland South, ZPCS this weekend held its Africa Prisons Day at Phelandaba Stadium where inmates had an opportunity to interact with the community
“This is an important day to us as it helps in maintaining social order, promote human rights, rehabilitate offenders and address misconceptions about incarceration to encourage a supportive community,” said ZPCS Matabeleland South Acting Officer Commanding, Assistant commissioner Sema Mbanje.
Zimbabwe has adopted a rehabilitation approach to prisons from traditionally being a punitive place for inmates
“The government of Zimbabwe has taken a leading role through championing for smart prisons as plans to construct a modern correctional facility in Gwanda are at an advanced stage. A smart prison incorporates advanced technologies and innovative design to improve safety, security and efficiency,” Director of Infrastructure Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Mr Daniel Njowa said.
The 2024 Africa Prisons and Correctional Services Commemorations ran under the theme: ‘rehabilitation: a collective responsibility’.
