Takudzwa Mahari
Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Barbara Rwodzi, visited Harare Central Prison and pledged continued government support to the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) as part of efforts to transform correctional facilities into modern rehabilitation centres.
The visit coincided with a church service hosted for inmates by Priest Father Makava, for the Christian Holy Season of Lent, a period of repentance, reflection, and renewal celebrated by Roman Catholic congregants.
After the Church service, Minister Rwodzi interacted with inmates and correctional officers. emphasising the government’s commitment to improving inmate welfare and promoting rehabilitation in line with Vision 2030.
Speaking during a church service held at the prison, Minister Rwodzi highlighted the importance of compassion, dignity, and a second chance, which should be given those who would have wronged society.
“As a Catholic, during this Lenten period, it is a time to reflect and remind communities that no one is beyond redemption.
“Government, under the leadership of President Mnangagwa, is committed to ensuring that inmates are given an opportunity to transform and become better people,” she said.
She added that the government is working to improve prison conditions and transform correctional institutions into fully-fledged rehabilitation centres.
The minister donated foodstuffs and detergents to inmates and pledged to mobilise further support and donations throughout the Lenten period to assist with essential supplies and welfare needs, contributing to the rehabilitation process.
“In Catholicism, during Lent we fast and give to the less privileged the items we would otherwise use,” she added.
Harare Central Prison Officer-In-Charge, Chief Superintendent Makava Matipuwa welcome the gesture, describing it as a morale booster for both officers and inmates who attended the Church service.
Chief Superintendent Makava said that:
“We are very pleased to be visited by a high-profile government official. It motivates us to see that the government supports the rehabilitation work we do, as a collective effort between the government and the community.”
Inmates also expressed gratitude, noting that such a ministerial visit was rare and signaled a positive shift in the correctional system.
The visit forms part of broader government efforts to strengthen correctional services and align them with humane and restorative justice principles.
