ZPCS MASHONALAND WEST EQUIPS PROVINCIAL BAND

By Everisto Zhuwao

The Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) Mashonaland West Province has purchased a new percussion set and two bugle trumpets to establish its own musical department. The acquisition aims to end the province’s long-term reliance on hiring outside musical groups for official events.

Commissioner Luke Zondai Makuvire, the officer commanding the province, handed over the new equipment at Chinhoyi Remand Prison on Wednesday. He stated that the arrival of these instruments marks the official start of a programme to build a fully functional provincial band.

“I am directing the band leadership to intensify talent identification and training,” Commissioner Makuvire said. He further urged the band members to work hard to reach the high standards required for national duties.

The province has previously struggled to host official functions without a dedicated military wing. The band in charge, Principal Correctional Officer Cynthia Bangure, explained that they often had to hire groups like the Crocodile Band to perform during events such as Prison Days.

“We aim to be fully operational for all official functions by January 2027,” PCO Bangure said. She noted that while the military wing is still growing, the provincial dance band is already equipped and available for hire by the public to generate income.

The band offers competitive booking rates to help fund provincial operations. PCO Bangure added that ZPCS officers who wish to hire the band for private events receive a 50 per cent discount.

This investment is part of the ZPCS Turnaround Strategy launched on May 15, 2023. This plan encourages the service to run business units, such as catering and construction, alongside its traditional correctional duties. These initiatives help the province remain productive while providing essential services to the community.