Story by Memory Chamisa
CHIKURUBI Female Prison came alive with festive spirit on Wednesday after inmates were treated to a day of celebration and goodwill, courtesy of the ZANU PF Women’s League National Executive.
In keeping with the spirit of the season, the Women’s League donated food hampers, toiletries and baby supplies to the inmates, spreading hope and compassion during a period traditionally associated with family and togetherness.
Several inmates expressed gratitude for the gesture, saying it brought comfort and encouragement during their incarceration.
“I am so happy today, I enjoyed the music that got us dancing together, and the gifts we have been given will go a long way towards our stay here.
“I am grateful for the baby supplies that our leadership has given us. It’s heart-warming to be remembered this season as everyone is thinking about their families, and for us to be given such love is nice.
“I am overjoyed as I was worried about my unborn child, but today what our mothers have done in our words to say, but grateful they have done this, and their gifts and baby clothing will go a long way in ensuring my baby is well cared for,” inmates said.
ZANU PF Women’s League Secretary, Senator Mabel Chinomona, said the festive season is a time to be with family, hence their visit to the female inmates.
“As the women’s league, we saw it imperative to come here and spend the day with you. No situation is permanent, and I believe you have all learned life lessons in here, and when you go back home, you will contribute positively. Our President also gave us money to buy some of the things you see here, as he is a loving father and believes no matter what wrong the child has done, they need to be disciplined and forgiven,” she said.
Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service Officer Commanding Harare Metropolitan Province, Commissioner Charity Gezi, applauded the kind gesture for uplifting the spirits of inmates.
“We are grateful for the donation that will not only empower the inmates but also instill the spirit of giving. The equipment you brought here will see them gaining skills in sewing, cutting and designing, which will greatly assist them as they go back in their communities. Besides rehabilitation services, they have also learnt the power of bringing financial independence through various skills training programmes they have received here,” Officer Commanding Harare Metropolitan Province ZPCS, Commissioner Charity Gezi said.
The ZANU PF Women’s league Executive left Chikurubi Female prison inmates with hope, and they have also empowered the women through their donation of sawing machine kits, and indeed, it is a merry Christmas.
