Story by Kenias Chivuzhe
THE annual Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) Family Week has become key in restoring broken family bonds, while enhancing the inmates rehabilitation process.
ZBC News visited Rusape Prison where inmates expressed appreciation for being accorded a chance to meet family members, describing the event as an important part of their rehabilitation process.
“I was imprisoned in September 2021 after being convicted of stock theft. The family week helps us to engage our families. We are happy as we are being given quality food and being entertained by the prison band,” said an inmate.
“The Family Week has allowed me to see my mother. I promised her to be a law-abiding citizen after getting out of prison. I was incarcerated for unlawful entry and theft and was imprisoned in 2016. This day shows that the prison is now for correctional services. We thank Commissioner Chihobvu and President Mnangagwa for allowing us this opportunity,” said another.
Friends and relatives of inmates are appreciative of the programme.
“We have been able to interact freely with inmates and we wish this could be done thrice a year. My cousin has reformed and has accepted Jesus as his survivor. He told us that after getting out of prison walls he would embark on projects such as piggery, poultry and preaching the Word of God. When we were told about prison we thought it was a horrible place, but I saw that it’s a place where correctional services take place. This my first time to be here and the reception was good. This programme is highly appreciated.”
According to the ZPCS, the Family Week has become key in the organisation’s rehabilitation programme.
“This event happens twice a year to help unite inmates with their families. We want to ensure inmates are closer to their families to reduce loneliness and ensure successful integration upon release. We also have one of our own who donated foodstuffs and meat for prisoners,” said Officer in Charge Rusape Prison, Superintendent Richard Mafuko.
The Family Week was introduced in September 2017 by the ZPCS to allow inmates time with their relatives and friends and in the process help to rehabilitate inmates through increased interaction with society.
