Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service

14/05/2026

ZPCS Joins Nation in Celebrating Chief Justice Malaba’s Legacy

Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service was today represented by Deputy Commissioner General Granisia Musango, on behalf of Commissioner General Dr Moses Cyril Ngawaite Chihobvu, at the farewell ceremony held in honour of Chief Justice Luke Malaba.

The Service joined other distinguished guests in celebrating Chief Justice Malaba’s remarkable legacy of dedicated service to the nation and his immense contribution to Zimbabwe’s justice delivery system

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14/05/2026

Ndhlovu Returns Home, Thanks Commissioner-General Chihobvu After Malaysia, Singapore Stints

Correctional Officer Grade One (CO1) Thandazile Ndhlovu has returned to Zimbabwe after completing a two-month international netball assignment in Malaysia and Singapore, where she gained exposure competing alongside top players from across the globe.

Ndhlovu, a goal shooter for Correctional Queens Netball Club and the Zimbabwe national netball team, featured for Melaka Mystic in the Malaysia Netball Super League before joining Swifts Netball Club in Singapore, where the team secured a bronze medal.

The 22-year-old player said the experience had exposed her to high-level international competition.

“I would like to thank Commissioner-General Chihobvu for allowing me to go and participate in Singapore league, and also in Malaysia where I gained a lot of experience. I got to play with New Zealand and Australian players. It's not easy to get on the international stage, so if the Commissioner-General hadn't allowed me to go and partake I wouldn't have gotten this kind of exposure,” said Ndhlovu.

Principal Correctional Officer (PCO) Emmanuel Rangwani, the Secretary General for Correctional Queens Netball Club, said the international player programme had benefited the player technically and tactically.

“I would like to appreciate Commissioner-General Chihobvu for allowing Thandazile Ndhlovu to go and participate in two major tournaments, one in Singapore and the other one in Malaysia, where the player was attached in an international player program, which program fundamentally draws very competitive players from across the globe, particularly in African countries like Zimbabwe, Botswana, Malawi, South Africa, Zambia, as well as in countries like Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, and New Zealand.

“So the platform allowed the player to gain vast experience both technically and tactically. And it is only at the prerogative of the Commissioner-General to allow the player to go and partake outside the country. The support that he rendered towards the initiative was so great.

“As Correctional Queens netball club, we are so happy, and we wish that if opportunities of a similar nature arise the Commissioner-General will also allow other players who are capable to participate. We are also looking at prospects where other teams across the globe may knock our doors perhaps seeking to sign the player to their clubs outside the country,” said PCO Rangwani.

Before moving to Singapore, Ndhlovu impressed in the Malaysia Netball Super League with Melaka Mystic, helping the side record victories in a competitive eight-team league.

She was part of the Correctional Queens team that won the 2025 Rainbow Netball League title.

14/05/2026

ZPCS Praised for Boosting Food Security

The Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) has been commended for contributing to national food security through agricultural production at Ntabazinduna Satellite Prison in Matabeleland North.

Speaking during a recent field day at the prison, Umguza District agricultural extension officer Mr Thulani Ndlovu said ZPCS was making productive use of prison land through climate-smart farming and commercial agriculture.

“ZPCS is doing a wonderful job here by utilising its land and producing excess food for the Grain Marketing Board. A tonne of maize is currently selling at around US$363, and this harvest can contribute significant revenue,” said Mr Ndlovu.

Stakeholders at the event said the prison’s farming projects were supplying food for inmates while surplus produce was being sold to sustain operations and reduce dependence on Treasury funding.

Ntabazinduna Satellite Prison, a satellite of Anju Prison Farm, trains inmates serving shorter sentences in practical farming skills before release. The institution runs maize fields, gardens, piggeries and fish ponds.

Among those who attended the field day were Officer Commanding Matabeleland North Commissioner Nesai Hlabano, Deputy Officer Commanding Assistant Commissioner Greenfield Bulala, senior ZPCS officers, local farmers, seed companies and community members.

ZPCS rehabilitation co-ordinator for Matabeleland North Principal Correctional Officer Shingirai Katswairo said agriculture remained central to inmate rehabilitation.

“When an inmate walks through these gates, we see someone who can be taught skills that will change their lives. Agriculture sits at the core of our rehabilitation strategy,” he said.

An inmate at the prison, Prince Mlandu, serving an 18-month sentence for theft, said the programme had equipped him with farming skills.

“In the last year, I have learnt that the food we buy in shops can be produced even here. All it takes is dedication. I now consider myself a farmer,” he said.

13/05/2026

ZPCS Drivers Embrace Awareness Initiatives

The Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) Transport Section, in collaboration with Human Capital Management (HCM), held a sensitisation workshop on Tuesday, 12 May 2026, at the Harare Central Prison Senior Officers’ Mess.

The workshop brought together drivers from ZPCS National Headquarters, many of whom serve as chauffeurs for the organisation’s Very Important Persons (VIPs). It also included drivers currently undergoing the orientation course for all service drivers at the ZPCS Driving School.

The brainchild of ZPCS Commissioner-General Dr. Moses Cyril Ngawaite Chihobvu, the workshop addressed key aspects of drivers’ day-to-day duties. Topics covered included discipline, professional conduct, security consciousness, communication, grooming and dress etiquette, time management, VIP driving, drug and substance abuse, vehicle care and maintenance, and traffic regulations, among others.

The one-day workshop aimed to cover all essential elements of driver sensitisation. Participants thoroughly enjoyed the buffet of topics that were on the menu which were served by competent facilitators, who presented their content in an engaging and thorough manner.

Guest of Honour, Deputy Commissioner-General responsible for Corrections and Infrastructure Development, Dr. Granisia Musango, represented the Commissioner-General. She underscored the pivotal role drivers play in the service and urged them to carry out their duties with pride. She called on them to be trusted friends and lieutenants to their principals, maintain the correct driver attitude, and observe professional conduct at all times. She also reminded them that, as they interact with outsiders, they serve as ambassadors of ZPCS.

The training was lively and highly interactive. Participants asked numerous questions to seek clarification, and the facilitators left no stone unturned in equipping them with the knowledge needed to discharge their duties effectively.

Both participants and driving instructors thanked the Commissioner-General and HCM for the programme. They appealed for similar initiatives to be held more regularly as a continuous tool for sharpening driver skills and professionalism.

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12/05/2026

ZPCS Commissioner-General Launches HIV Conference, Confers Badges of Rank

The Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) Commissioner-General, Dr Moses Cyril Ngawaite Chihobvu, officially opened the HIV Conference programme at the Village Lodge in Gweru on 12 May 2026. The conference runs under the theme, "Shaping the Future of Integrated Health in Correctional Facilities: Bridging HIV and NCDs."

During the event, Dr Chihobvu conferred badges of rank to five medical doctors who where promoted by His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe Cde Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa from Superintendent to Chief Superintendent, and one Environmental Health Officer from Assistant Principal Correctional Officer to Principal Correctional Officer.

The event was attended by Deputy Commissioner-General Manetswa C. Manhivi, Commissioner Dr Evidence Gaka, Officer Commanding Bulawayo Metropolitan Province Commissioner Mkhulunyelwa Ngwenya, Acting Officer Commanding Midlands Province Assistant Commissioner Clemence Chigogo, senior ZPCS officers, medical doctors, Ministry of Health and Child Care officials, members of the Zimbabwe National Army, Air Force of Zimbabwe, Zimbabwe Republic Police, National AIDS Council, NGOs and representatives from other government departments.

Addressing the gathering, Dr Chihobvu praised health care professionals for their service and urged continued commitment. He said, "Correctional facilities remain a harbour to special populations who are at risk of contracting and spreading HIV infections when released. We therefore place great value to all the stakeholders' commitment towards eradication of HIV."

Health experts delivered presentations highlighting interventions and strategies for improving healthcare outcomes and public health awareness. The conference will run from 12 to 14 May 2026.


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12/05/2026

Zimbabwe Retains Continental Chess Crown as Male Team Defends Gold, Women Clinch Silver in African Prison Championships.

Zimbabwe has once again stamped its authority on African correctional chess after the male team successfully defended their continental title while the women’s side produced a spirited performance to claim silver at the 2nd Continental Online Chess Championships for Prisoners held this today under the global Chess for Freedom programme governed by FIDE.

The gripping continental contest saw Zimbabwe field two highly competitive teams determined to uphold the nation’s growing dominance in correctional chess.

The men rose magnificently to the challenge, producing a commanding display of tactical brilliance, resilience and discipline to retain the championship and reaffirm Zimbabwe’s place as Africa’s correctional chess powerhouse.

The women’s team also fought gallantly throughout the tournament, finishing in an impressive second place behind a strong Ghanaian side that claimed gold. Their silver-medal finish further underlined Zimbabwe’s consistency and excellence on the continental stage.

The atmosphere was further electrified by the timely visit of Deputy Commissioner General Granisia Musango, who arrived in the morning to inspire and motivate the players ahead of battle. Representing Commissioner General Dr Moses Cyril Ngawaite Chihobvu, she delivered words of encouragement that clearly ignited the teams’ fighting spirit and sharpened their resolve to make the nation proud.

Zimbabwe’s continued excellence in correctional chess is no accident. Since finishing as runners-up at the inaugural Intercontinental Online Chess Championships for Prisoners in 2021, the country has remained committed to rigorous preparation and strategic development, steadily building a formidable reputation on both continental and global platforms.

This latest triumph reflects the strength of the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service Chess Development Programme, which has become one of the most active and impactful rehabilitation initiatives in the region. Beyond international online competition, ZPCS also hosts the country’s largest domestic over-the-board correctional chess tournament in Bulawayo, bringing together inmates, correctional officers and members of the public in a unique display of integration, rehabilitation and intellectual growth.

This year’s edition will take place on 27–28 June at Khami Complex, promising another showcase of talent and transformation through sport.
Zimbabwe’s participation was made possible through the generous support of Minerva Risk Advisors, who provided essential data gadgets, and Prison Outreach, whose continued support for rehabilitation and empowerment programmes remains invaluable.

Over the years, the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service chess programme has greatly benefited from the unwavering support of the Zimbabwe Chess Federation, whose consistent material and technical assistance has played a pivotal role in the growth and success of correctional chess across the country. Through the provision of chess equipment, training resources, expert technical guidance and continuous mentorship, the federation has helped nurture talent within correctional institutions while strengthening chess as a vital rehabilitation and intellectual development tool. This enduring partnership has not only enhanced competitive standards within ZPCS but has also positioned Zimbabwe as a formidable force in both continental and intercontinental correctional chess competitions.

For Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service, chess is far more than a game. It is a powerful tool for rehabilitation, discipline, strategic thinking and personal transformation.

Today, Zimbabwe did not merely compete.
Zimbabwe conquered.

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12/05/2026

CG Tours Ruchanyu Farm, Shurugwi Female Prison

The Commissioner-General of the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service, Dr Moses Cyril Ngawaite Chihobvu, yesterday toured Ruchanyu Farm in Zvishavane before visiting Shurugwi Female Prison to assess production projects, rehabilitation programmes and welfare issues affecting inmates and officers.

Dr Chihobvu, accompanied by Acting Officer Commanding Midlands Province Assistant Commissioner Clemence Chigogo, Chief Staff Officer Administration and Statistics Chief Superintendent Kyle Mazhindu and other provincial heads, visited the seven-hectare Ruchanyu Farm along the Gweru-Zvishavane Highway on 11 May.

The farm project, funded by Midlands Provincial Headquarters, focuses on piggery, horticulture and irrigation. Dr Chihobvu toured the projects and urged prison authorities to fully utilise the land to promote sustainability and self-sufficiency.

He said the organisation had moved away from punitive correctional approaches, with inmates now involved in productive activities as part of rehabilitation and reintegration programmes.

Dr Chihobvu said the organisation would soon launch the Pathway to Reintegration Foundation programme to support inmates after release.

Addressing officers, he encouraged them to participate in production projects and embrace the organisation’s Production, Innovation and Entrepreneurship culture. He also urged officers to enrol in internal training courses to acquire skills beneficial during and after service.

On social welfare, Dr Chihobvu encouraged officers to prioritise education, avoid domestic violence and promote harmony in their families.

At Shurugwi Female Prison, the Commissioner-General met inmates and officers and toured projects at the station, including the ECD school. Inmates thanked the organisation for providing food, accommodation, clothing and blankets.

He encouraged the station administration to continue expanding development projects before concluding the visit with an engagement with officers stationed at the prison.

12/05/2026

ZPCS Officers Shine at Plumtree Half Marathon

The Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) dominated the Plumtree Town Council Half Marathon on Sunday, with Correctional Officer Grade Three (CO3) Caroline Mhandu of Chikurubi Training School winning gold in the women’s 21km race.

Mhandu clocked 1 hour 25 minutes to finish first in the women’s category at the event held in Plumtree.

In the men’s category, Correctional Officer Grade One (CO1) Ikhutseng Polite of ZPCS Bulawayo Metropolitan Province finished seventh in the 21km race.

Officer-in-Charge of Plumtree Prison, Superintendent Edward Phiri, congratulated the athletes for representing the Service well.

“When I reached the 15km mark, the heat was picking up, but I kept thinking about the months of training at Chikurubi. Winning gold isn't just a personal victory; it’s for every officer who works hard behind the scenes. I am honoured to represent the service,” said Mhandu.

Polite said competition in the race was intense.

“Coming in at number seven in such a talented field was a challenge, but the support from my colleagues in Bulawayo kept me moving. This is just the beginning; we are proving that ZPCS officers are not only dedicated to duty but are elite athletes as well,” he said.

The results reflected the growing participation of ZPCS officers in competitive sport.

11/05/2026

Spirit Embassy, Andy Muridzo Visit Harare Remand Prison

Musician Andy Muridzo, born Kudzai Andrew Ngwenya, recently visited Harare Remand Prison alongside a delegation from Spirit Embassy church led by Uebert Angel to support rehabilitation and reintegration programmes being implemented by the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) aimed at reducing recidivism among inmates.

The delegation was led by Dr Ruth Machingura, Director of the Healing Institute Department in the church, who reaffirmed the church’s commitment to partnering ZPCS in promoting rehabilitation and producing reformed and responsible citizens.

During the visit, the delegation donated television sets, decoders, cleaning detergents and toiletries to inmates. Inmates also shared testimonies before Muridzo entertained them with a live performance and encouraged them to use their incarceration as an opportunity for personal transformation.

“I deeply appreciate the ZPCS leadership for allowing musicians like myself and churches such as Spirit Embassy to interact with you. I urge you, my brothers, to learn from your past and become responsible citizens who will lead by example when you reintegrate into society,” said Muridzo.

Dr Machingura said inviting the Delilah hitmaker was intended to uplift inmates’ morale while complementing rehabilitation efforts through material and spiritual support under the church’s prison ministry programme.

Superintendent Smart Chokuwamba, representing the Officer-in-Charge Harare Remand Prison, thanked the delegation for the donation and support.

“The support and encouragement brought to the inmates today is greatly appreciated. Programmes of this nature contribute significantly to rehabilitation and restoration of hope among inmates,” he said.

Inmates also expressed appreciation to the ZPCS leadership and the visiting delegation, saying interactions with public figures such as Muridzo gave them hope, motivation and a sense of belonging.

11/05/2026

10/05/2026

SDA Commends ZPCS Rehabilitation Drive

The Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church has commended the rehabilitation and reintegration programmes being implemented by the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS), saying they are helping offenders become productive members of society.

The church made the remarks during a donation ceremony and theological graduation held at Mutare Remand Prison on Friday.

The SDA Church donated a cabin office to the station chaplaincy and 100 metres of orange fabric for inmates’ uniforms. The event also saw male and female inmates graduate after completing the SDA Voice of Prophecy theological course.

Mutare Remand Prison Officer-in-Charge, Superintendent Wallace Mbanje, praised the partnership between the church and ZPCS.

“ZPCS and SDA Church collaborative efforts towards the rehabilitation and skills development of inmates has been yielding positive results across the country. As a station, we are grateful of the gifts you have brought for us,” said Superintendent Mbanje.

The church said it would continue supporting inmates during incarceration and after release through income-generating projects.

Spiritual rehabilitation is regarded as one of the key components in accelerating inmates’ rehabilitation and reintegration into society.