The Zimbabwe Prisons and Zimbabwe rectional Service (ZPCS) says as it undergoes a transformation phase focusing on rehabilitation and restoration of inmates, it is ready for private and public partnerships that ensure expansion of prison industries.
With 24 productive farms across the country and various industries running, the ZPCS continues to focus on skills development for inmates, hence it is ready for public and private partnerships.
Speaking at a business brunch held this Monday, ZPCS Commissioner General Moses Chihobvu said the focus is to create a rehabilitation and economically productive correctional system in the country.
“Through fostering an environment that promotes personal growth and development, we have created fertile ground for partnerships that support our objectives underpinned on equipping inmates with skills, knowledge and values that enable them to contribute positively to society upon their release.
Through collaboration with both private and public partners who share our vision of creating a rehabilitative and economically productive correctional system, ZPCS has been able to introduce vocational training, educational programmes and psychological support services that are tailored to meet the diverse needs of the inmate population, thereby improving their employability and reducing recidivism rates,” he said.
A renowned businessman and farmer, Commissioner Stanley Kondongwe, who was recently appointed to the ZPCS Commission, spoke on the importance of reintegration programmes for inmates.
“We are looking forward to fulfilling the function of ensuring the general well-being and good administration of prisons and correctional service. We are also looking forward to supporting the idea of a reintegration foundation to offer second chances to inmates.”
The event saw the presentation of investment opportunities in Masvingo province, especially in the agriculture and mining sector by various stakeholders.
Masvingo Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Honourable Ezra Chadzamira said, “We are happy with the work that is being done by the ZPCS, especially their contribution to the agriculture sector. We have several dams in Masvingo province, hence we are looking forward to opening up several irrigation facilities. Again, we expect investors in the agriculture value chain.”
Apart from ensuring productivity in agriculture and other sectors, ZPCS is also working on improving its infrastructure including the establishment of open prisons.
