THE Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) has commended inmates for their eagerness to acquire vocational skills, noting that it is a crucial step towards rehabilitation and successful reintegration into society.
The remarks were made at the ZPCS stand at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) in Bulawayo, where a variety of products made by inmates through vocational training programmes were on display.
The exhibition highlighted the correctional service’s rehabilitation initiatives, which focus on equipping inmates with practical skills that can help them to secure livelihoods and reduce the likelihood of re-offending after release.
ZPCS assistant principal correctional Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) said inmates were actively participating in skills development programmes designed to prepare them for life after prison.
“That is why we focus on equipping inmates with skills and knowledge that will allow them to start their own projects when they leave prison,” Magutshwa told Southern Eye.
The stand also displayed handmade jewellery, including earrings made from jacaranda pearls, demonstrating that inmates are encouraged to utilise natural resources found in their surroundings.
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In addition to textile work, inmates are also trained in farming and gardening so they can make productive use of land in their communities to sustain themselves and their families after release.
Magutshwa said empowering women through skills development had an impact on families and communities.
“When a woman learns a skill, it is almost impossible for her children not to learn that skill as well. This means we are empowering not just the individual, but also the family and the community,” she said.
The exhibition also featured a culinary section where inmates demonstrated cooking skills. Some prisoners have previously participated in national cooking competitions, including Amai’s Traditional Cookout Competition.
Magutshwa said such initiatives formed part of ZPCS’s broader rehabilitation strategy aimed at reducing chances of re-offending.
“Our goal is not just to keep inmates occupied while they are serving their sentences, but to equip them with skills that help them to live productive lives once they return to society,” she said.
One exhibit was presented by inmate Qakathekisani Mnkandla, who showcased artwork depicting a “green prison” concept created from recycled waste materials.
“I specialise in waste management. After everyone has used what they need and disposed of what they call waste, I refuse to have anything referred to as waste. We recycle and, in the process, reduce diseases,” Mnkandla said.
He also appealed for support so that when inmates are released, they can access funding to grow their ideas into sustainable income-generating projects.