Minister Mugadza Hails Rehabilitation Gains at Mutare Prison Farm

The Manicaland Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Advocate Misheck Mugadza, visited Mutare Prison Farm today to mark the conclusion of the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) Family Week.

The Minister toured the correctional facility to assess rehabilitation projects and interact with inmates and their visiting relatives. He was received by the Officer Commanding Manicaland Province, Commissioner Spetosomusa Chinobva.

During his address to the gathering, Hon. Mugadza emphasised that the country’s correctional system has successfully shifted its focus from punishment to reform. He noted that modern facilities are designed to prepare inmates for productive lives after their release.

“Our prisons are now different from those of the colonial era,” Hon. Mugadza said. “Inmates are being rehabilitated. These are no longer prisons, but correctional facilities focused on reforming and reintegrating inmates.”

The Minister expressed gratitude to President Cde Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa and ZPCS Commissioner-General Dr Moses CN Chihobvu for spearheading the Family Week initiative. He also highlighted the positive impact of the Presidential Amnesty granted in March 2026, which reduced the prison population and gave many a second chance.

“A lot of you benefited from the Presidential Amnesty,” the Minister told the inmates. “For those who were not visited today, do not worry your visitors will come during the next Family Week programme.”

Beyond emotional support, the visit showcased the vocational and agricultural progress at the farm. Hon. Mugadza commended the high maize yields and the various skills training programmes currently underway.

Family Week is designed to strengthen family ties and provide inmates with the emotional stability needed for post-release adjustment. Authorities believe that maintaining contact with relatives reduces the sense of isolation often felt behind bars.

Relatives attending the event praised the initiative for allowing them quality time with their loved ones. Brenda Kukura, who visited her father, said the programme allowed them to discuss personal matters and seek guidance.

“I noticed that inmates are being taught many skills, some of which people outside cannot do,” she observed.