President Mnangagwa challenges ZPCS to enhance criminal justice system
Story by Sifiso Sibanda
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has challenged the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) to work closely with other government departments and partners to develop comprehensive solutions to challenges facing the criminal justice system.
He was speaking at the ZPCS Passout Parade in Ntabazinduna this Friday.
President Mnangagwa said his government will continue to support ZPCS to fulfil its mandate of rehabilitating offenders.
He noted the need for training, professional and infrastructure development and availing of the necessary resources for the effective operation of correctional facilities.
“The requisite investment in the development of innovative strategies and programmes to address the root causes of crime and ever-looming risks of re-offenders. Hence effective crime prevention requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses the social, economic, and environmental factors that contribute to criminal behaviour,” he said.
President Mnangagwa also called on the ZPCS to complement government efforts in the ongoing fight against drug and substance abuse.
He added, “I once again call upon our people, young and old alike to reject drugs and substance abuse. Our national energies should be channelled towards production, productivity, and innovation across all sectors for the development, growth and prosperity of our beloved motherland, Zimbabwe. The incorporation of drugs and substance abuse-related issues into the curriculum of the 43rd recruitment correctional officers’ course reinforces my government’s multi-pronged efforts to tackle this menace.”
The ZPCS was also commended for innovative initiatives to commercialise rehabilitation activities by harnessing the potential of correctional facilities to generate income, create employment, and contribute to economic growth.
“I am aware that three of the farms under ZPCS with irrigation facilities have become very productive. Congratulations, my government stands ready to capacitate more ZPCS farms with existing water bodies to increase our national irrigation capacity as we mitigate the effects of climate change,” said the President.
A total of 752 correctional officers graduated, comprising 534 males and 218 females.
