Inmates braaing on family day at Whawha Prison
Tinaani Nyabereka
GWERU – The Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS) Midlands is hosting a family week from August 13-19 at Whawha Medium Prison as part of the organisation’s rehabilitation programme.
ZPCS provincial public relations officer, Jerry Ruzive said the objective was to unite inmates with their families and loved ones, adding that the family played a big role in the rehabilitation process.
“We have families coming to see their relatives and loved ones who are in prison with the idea being to help them remain connected. The sense of belonging should not be lost simply because a person has been incarcerated. We can’t ignore the fact that the family plays a vital role in the rehabilitation of inmates.
“We are happy with the outcome because many families have already taken the opportunity to come and visit their loved ones. We are in our second year of this initiative and the response is good.
“Members of the public suggested that the programme be done during school holidays and public holidays when children are at home,” said Ruzive.
Emmanuel Dera, an inmate, expressed gratitude at being given a chance to see his loved ones in an almost usual family set-up.
“I am grateful to ZPCs for organising an event which has enabled me to interact with my family in a relaxed environment. We are also being treated well in prison although we face the usual problems associated with the country’s prison life,” said Dera.
Whawha Prison principal correction officer, station and rehabilitation coordinator, Clara Chingono said despite many challenges, ZPCS was doing its level best to ensure that the welfare of prisoners was met.
“All basic needs are catered for and in a week like this, we allow families to bring food stuffs and basics such bathing soaps, body cream lotions and others to their loved ones,” said Chingono.local
