Story by Godfrey M. Bonda
HARARE — Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry Barbara Rwodzi has reaffirmed Government’s commitment to supporting the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service as part of broader efforts to transform correctional institutions into modern rehabilitation and reintegration centres.
Minister Rwodzi made the pledge during a visit to Harare Central Prison, where she attended a church service held for inmates as part of the Christian Holy Season of Lent. The service was officiated by Priest Father Makava and was marked by themes of repentance, reflection, renewal, and forgiveness in line with Roman Catholic teachings.
Following the service, the Minister interacted with inmates and correctional officers, underscoring Government’s resolve to improve inmate welfare and strengthen rehabilitation programmes in alignment with Vision 2030.
Addressing congregants, Minister Rwodzi emphasised the values of compassion, dignity, and second chances, noting that correctional facilities must serve as centres of transformation rather than punishment alone.
“As a Catholic, this Lenten period reminds us that no one is beyond redemption. Government, under the leadership of Emmerson Mnangagwa, remains committed to ensuring that inmates are given an opportunity to reform, transform, and reintegrate into society as better citizens,” she said.
She added that Government continues to work towards improving prison conditions while repositioning correctional institutions as fully fledged rehabilitation centres that promote skills development, moral renewal, and social responsibility.
In a show of solidarity, the Minister donated foodstuffs and detergents to inmates and pledged to mobilise additional support throughout the Lenten period to assist with essential supplies and welfare needs, which she said are critical to the rehabilitation process.
“In the Catholic faith, Lent is a period of sacrifice and giving. We are encouraged to share with the less privileged the items we would otherwise consume ourselves,” Minister Rwodzi said.
Officer-in-Charge at Harare Central Prison, Chief Superintendent Makawa Matipuwa, welcomed the visit, describing it as a major morale booster for both officers and inmates.
“We are deeply honoured by this visit from a senior Government official. It reassures us that the work we do in rehabilitating offenders is recognised and supported, and that it is a shared responsibility between Government and the community,” he said.
Inmates who attended the service also expressed appreciation, noting that such high-level engagement was rare and reflected a positive shift towards a more humane and restorative correctional system.
The visit forms part of ongoing Government efforts to strengthen correctional services and align them with international best practices centred on dignity, rehabilitation, and restorative justice.
