Mnangagwa promotes 419 prison officers

President Mnangagwa has promoted 419 officers within the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS), a move reflecting Government's commitment to gender equality, merit and institutional excellence.

The promoted group includes three Assistant Commissioners, five Chief Superintendents, 16 Superintendents, 70 Chief Correctional Officers and 325 Principal Correctional Officers. Of these, 312 are men and 107 are women, underscoring Government's policy of advancing equal opportunities and inclusivity in leadership roles.

In addition, ZPCS Commissioner-General Moses Chihobvu has elevated 1 669 non-commissioned officers, with official conferment ceremonies to be held at establishments across the country at dates yet to be confirmed.

Speaking during a badge conferment ceremony in Harare yesterday, ZPCS Deputy Commissioner-General Manetswa Christine Manhivi, delivering a speech on behalf of Comm-Gen Chihobvu, urged the newly-promoted officers to embrace their roles with integrity and renewed commitment.

"It is our hope that you will continue to purposely serve the organisation with goal-oriented mindsets, diligence, commitment and most importantly, with loyalty and patriotism to our country and Government leadership," said Comm-Gen Chihobvu.

He stressed that the promotions come at a time when the ZPCS is accelerating its institutional reforms and operational goals.

"This implies that you will all be overburdened with more responsibilities that require renewed energy and strategies for you to effectively perform new functions and roles as expected and required," he added.

Comm-Gen Chihobvu further called on the officers to demonstrate strong leadership qualities and to adopt a zero-tolerance approach to corruption and laziness.

"You must lead by example and ensure that there is zero tolerance for corruption and laziness so that you earn a model status," he said.

He also highlighted drug abuse as one of the major challenges facing communities.

"Taking drugs continues to cause havoc in our communities by causing mental and physical health illnesses, social disorders and deaths," he said.

While acknowledging that vacancies were limited during this year's promotion cycle, Comm-Gen Chihobvu encouraged those who were not promoted to remain committed and positive.

"Those who were not successful in this recent promotion exercise should not despair but remain positive and showcase unprecedented levels of allegiance to serve the nation," he said.