Minister Charles Tavengwa is shown some of the products made by inmates
BY MUNYARADZI BLESSING DOMA
Zimbabwe’s prisons should not be mere holding cells but environments that foster rehabilitation, education, and personal growth, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Harare Metropolitan Province, Senator Charles Tavengwa, has said.
Minister Tavengwa revealed this last Saturday at the Africa Prisons and Correctional Service Day Commemorations at the Chikurubi Damview and Events Garden.
The event, hosted by the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) Harare Metropolitan Province, ran under the theme, “Rehabilitation: A Collective Responsibility.”
Minister Tavengwa said the theme resonated deeply with the government’s shared mission to transform the landscape of its correctional facilities.
“It is an opportunity not only to reflect on our progress but also to galvanize our collective efforts towards a paradigm shift from punitive incarceration to a more humane, reformative approach to incarceration.
“As we look towards Vision 2030, it is imperative that we reimagine the role of our prisons.
“No longer should they be mere holding cells, but rather environments that foster rehabilitation, education, and personal growth.
“We aspire to create correctional facilities where human rights are upheld and where every inmate has the opportunity to acquire knowledge and skills that will enable them to reintegrate successfully into society,” said Minister Tavengwa.
He said that it was important to improve the living conditions within the prisons, including ensuring that inmates have access to adequate food, clothing, and healthcare.
Minister Tavengwa accompanied by Commissioner Gilbert Marange and other officials, tour one of the stands at commemorations
“By providing humane treatment, we not only adhere to the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Offenders but also affirm our commitment to treating every individual with dignity and respect.”
He added that showcasing various rehabilitation programs through exhibitions highlighted the positive impact these initiatives have on inmates.
“These programs are not merely theoretical; they are practical, evidence-based approaches that demonstrate the power of rehabilitation.
“Ladies and gentlemen, one of our key objectives today is to raise awareness about the importance of rehabilitation and to challenge the misconceptions surrounding incarceration.
“Too often, society views incarceration as an end rather than a means to an end.
“By fostering a more supportive community, we can transform perceptions and encourage public participation in the rehabilitation process,” Minister Tavengwa said.
He also revealed that ZPCS should continue to engage in activities that highlight the talents and skills of inmates through sports, music performances, and arts.
“We aim to showcase the potential that lies within each individual, regardless of their past.
“Today, we celebrate not only the achievements of those currently incarcerated but also the path they are forging towards a brighter future.
“I would like to take a moment to commend the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service for its unwavering commitment to this vision.
“The ZPCS has been instrumental in advancing our goals, particularly through its alignment with international standards and its innovative programs.
“One of ZPCS’s notable initiatives is the ‘Family Week’ concept, which allows inmates to engage with their relatives and friends in a free and conducive environment.
“This initiative is a testament to the belief that maintaining ties with the outside world is crucial for successful reintegration.”
He added that ZPCS’s participation in United Nations peacekeeping missions demonstrates its commitment to global standards of human rights and justice.
“This participation not only enhances our international standing but also provides our personnel with invaluable experience that can be brought back to our local context.
“As we move forward, let us focus on transforming inmate rehabilitation by promoting knowledge and skills acquisition.
“Our goal is to enhance self-sustenance upon discharge from correctional facilities.
“This requires a collaborative effort, pooling resources and expertise from all sectors of society.
“Rehabilitation is not merely a function of the state; it is a collective responsibility that requires the involvement of every member of society.
“Together, we can create a more compassionate and just system that empowers individuals and strengthens communities,” added Minister Tavengwa.
ZPCS’s Officer Commanding Harare Metropolitan Province, Commissioner Gilbert Marange, said they have a mandate to incarcerate, rehabilitate, and reintegrate, which is why inmates were part of the commemorations.
“Through these rehabilitation programmes, a large number of inmates are doing better, and reintegration has increased. This increase has had a positive impact on society at large,” said Commissioner Marange.
He, however noted the challenge of stigma and wrong perceptions that inmates face upon their release.
“These issues must be addressed to achieve sustainable and equitable reintegration.
“As an organisation, we play our part to incarcerate and rehabilitate them, therefore everyone has a role to play.
“As we are celebrating the Prisons and Correctional Services Day, I would like to challenge everyone here and every organisation represented that inmates need support when they are still in custody and when they are released so that they are able to sustain themselves,” added Commissioner Marange.
Some inmates who spoke to this reporter revealed their appreciation of ZPCS’s transformation, noting significant improvements.
“Being here is not the end of life,” said Brian Masamba.
“When I came here, I never imagined I would gain so many valuable skills. I have learned to bake bread and cakes, and I have gained other skills I never thought possible.
“Now, I feel prepared to make a positive contribution when I leave this place. I’m even excited to teach others the knowledge I have acquired. Events like today’s are a great part of our rehabilitation.”
Isaac Mandizha shared similar sentiments: “Prison today is nothing like it was in the colonial times. There’s been a lot of transformation.
“When I arrived here, I didn’t know anything about building, but now I have the skills to construct a structure from start to finish.
“This is something I never thought I would learn, and it’s all because of the rehabilitation programs here.
“I have also had time to reflect on my mistakes, and I’m confident that when I leave, I will be a better person, ready to contribute positively to society,” Mandizha said.
The event was vibrant and engaging, featuring a lively soccer match, several captivating drills, and energetic music performances from artists such as Sulumani Chimbetu and Roki, among others. And it was a moment of joy for many members of the community who came to witness the commemorations.
