Minister Chombo Calls for Evidence-Based Rehabilitation at Prisons Day Commemorations
By Admire Chitsungo
Kadoma-The Annual Prisons and Correctional Service Day commemorations held at Rimuka Stadium on Friday were marked by strong calls for innovation in rehabilitation and reintegration of offenders, with Government urging evidence-based approaches to correctional services.
Guest of Honour, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Mashonaland West, Hon Marian Chombo, in a speech read on her behalf by Mr Malvin Mhaka, Deputy Director for Infrastructure Development in her office, said the 2025 commemorations were a moment of reflection, recommitment, and recognition of the critical role played by the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS).
Running under the theme “Evidence-Based Rehabilitation for Sustainable Reintegration”, the commemorations also coincided with the 17th anniversary of the African Correctional Services Association (ACSA), which now boasts 36 member states, including Zimbabwe.
“This year’s theme captures the shift ZPCS is undertaking, moving from traditional rehabilitation methods to scientific, research-driven models with measurable outcomes. It aligns with our national vision of Leaving No One and No Place Behind as championed by His Excellency, President Dr ED Mnangagwa,” said Mhaka.
He commended ZPCS for its ongoing Turnaround Strategy, launched in 2023, which is revitalising correctional services through enhanced security, improved professionalism, sustainable prison farming, and expanded vocational training.
“Prison farms are becoming more productive, skills programmes are expanding, and inmates are contributing directly to food security and community development. This is rehabilitation in action, rehabilitation that advances Vision 2030,” Mhaka said.
The guest of honour also saluted the dedication of correctional officers, describing them as “custodians of discipline and beacons of transformation,” while urging inmates to embrace reform and seize opportunities for personal development.
Turning to national challenges, Mhaka raised concern over rising drug and substance abuse, which he said was fuelling crime and overwhelming correctional facilities.
“Drug abuse is a national crisis that robs us of our future. Parents, teachers, churches, traditional leaders and communities must unite to fight this scourge. A drug-free Zimbabwe is a prosperous Zimbabwe,” he said.
Also in attendance were ZPCS Commissioner Luke Makuvire, Officer Commanding Mashonaland West Province, alongside senior officers from Inkomo Mechanised Brigade, Joson Moyo Airbase, and the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP).
The commemorations, attended by senior Government officials, ZPCS leadership, officers, inmates, and community members, were punctuated with cultural displays, music, and exhibitions showcasing rehabilitation projects.
Mr Mhaka urged all stakeholders to embrace discipline, compassion, and transformation in building a safer, prosperous Zimbabwe.