Story by Reuben Barwe, Chief Correspondent
A high-level delegation from the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights has hailed Zimbabwe’s Open Prison System as a major milestone in the promotion and recognition of human rights.
The remarks were made by the head of delegation, Commissioner Janet Ramatoulie Salla Njie, following a courtesy call on President Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa in Harare on Wednesday.
Commissioner Njie commended Zimbabwe for implementing what she described as a highly innovative model, noting that open prison systems remain rare across the continent.
She singled out the Marondera Female Open Correctional Institution as a best practice that could be replicated both locally and across Africa to ease congestion in correctional facilities.
“We highlight Marondera as a best practice, but we also want to see what is happening in the normal prisons so that we can make appropriate recommendations to Zimbabwe. The essence of this promotion mission is to engage in constructive dialogue, have interaction and dialogue with officials, and thereafter make recommendations,” she said.
The delegation is currently engaging Government officials as part of its promotional mission, aimed at strengthening the country’s human rights framework through dialogue and assessment.
Commissioner Njie said a comprehensive report of the mission’s findings will be presented to Zimbabwean authorities, with the delegation expressing readiness to continue engagement on its recommendations.
Authorities say Zimbabwe remains committed to upholding human and people’s rights, despite challenges posed by economic sanctions.
