President Mnangagwa Pledges Continued Support for Civil Servants

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to improving the working conditions and welfare of civil servants nationwide.

He made the remarks at the joint pass-out parade for Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) recruits at the Ntabazinduna Training School, where more than 1 000 new officers graduated.

“My administration remains dedicated to strengthening the welfare and conditions of service for all government workers, including ZPCS officers. Your efforts demonstrate how vital civil servants are in driving national development and shaping a prosperous Zimbabwe,” he said.

Mnangagwa stressed that the role of the correctional services has expanded beyond keeping offenders in custody.

The 2025 ZPCS pass-out parade featured 1 195 graduates from intakes 156 and 157, who completed six months of intensive training.

Addressing the graduating officers and invited guests, the President, who is also Commander-in-Chief of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, welcomed the service’s shift toward rehabilitation and reintegration.

“It is encouraging to see the ZPCS embracing a broader mandate that includes correction, rehabilitation, and reintegration, while respecting human dignity. This modern approach aligns with our cultural values, constitutional principles, and global best practices in correctional management,” he said.

The latest intakes include professionals in various fields such as law, psychology, and technical trades. Mnangagwa said these skills will enhance the institution’s capacity and contribute significantly to its reform agenda.

“I am pleased that this group comprises qualified professionals, including psychologists who will strengthen the rehabilitation and reintegration drive. The recruitment of lawyers is another notable development, as they will offer legal and humanitarian expertise. Such specialised competencies will enhance the ZPCS’s ability to uphold justice and safeguard human rights in line with national and international standards,” the President stated.

He added that the Second Republic has transformed the country’s correctional philosophy towards a more empowering and restorative system. One of the major developments, he noted, is the revival of the parole programme.

“The expansion of the parole system is a significant step forward. It will now benefit deserving inmates who have shown genuine reform and readiness to reintegrate into society. In December, government will host the first Zimbabwe Parole System Conference to help refine the programme and ensure it balances justice, rehabilitation, and community safety within our national and African context.”

As the new officers prepare to take up posts across the country, President Mnangagwa urged them to embody the principles of Ubuntu/hunhu in their service.