Zim Prisoners acquiring agricultural, empowerment they will use after prison

ZIMBABWE Prison Service's farming projects have contributed immensely to food security at prisons countrywide. ZPS had over the years been battling to feed inmates because of food shortages owing to economic hardships.

After touring Bindura Prison Farm with his Zambian counterpart Percy Kangwa Chato, ZPS Commissioner Retired Major General Paradzai Zimondi said there were no more food shortages in prisons.

"Prisoners are benefiting a lot. They are producing maize for sadza and this has reduced the Government's burden of feeding inmates," said Rtd Maj Gen Zimondi.

"I can safely say that ever since our prisoners started farming we have never complained of food shortage.

"Prisoners are also acquiring agricultural skills and this is empowerment they will use after release from prison."

ZPS, he said, was also going to venture into gardening and production of vegetables.

Commissioner Chato was impressed by what he saw at the prisons he visited.

"I have learnt a lot here and am going to apply it back home.

"The purpose of this visit is not only to return Comm Zimondi's visit but to learn how things are done this side," said Commissioner Chato.

Apart from maize production, prisons have also ventured into dairy and beef production.

Chawagona Prison Farm has 45 hectares, which is under maize, and they are expecting a yield of about four tonnes per hectare.