Story by Mhlomuli Ncube
THE Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service continues to rehabilitate inmates and cultivate new skills among them, which help them after incarceration.
During the ZPCS Matabeleland North Prisons Day commemorations held in Tsholotsho this Friday, inmates had the opportunity to showcase various skills they had learned during their incarceration.
“Although I am still in prison, I learnt brick making and I am employed at McDonald’s Bricks. When I finish my sentence, my salary will be there, as I work even while I am still serving my sentence. I am into curio making, and this is a skill that will help me when I have finished my sentence. I learnt how to make shoes and other leather products. I am confident that after this, I will go on to make a living, and I want to thank ZPCS for allowing me to learn life survival skills,” an inmate said.
The government says the ZPCS has a critical socio-economic role to play in nation-building and development.
“Our goal is not only to reduce recidivism but to empower individuals, providing them with tools to thrive as productive members of society,” Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service Officer Commanding Matabeleland North, Commissioner Nesai Hlabano noted.
“We recognise the strategic role of ZPCS in industrialisation and economic growth. Correctional industries in agriculture, construction, manufacturing, and mining are key to both rehabilitation and national productivity,” Matabeleland North Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Richard Moyo added.
Meanwhile, a sports gala was also held where teams of inmates from different correctional facilities in Matabeleland North Province took part.
