Zimbabwe Prisons repurposes red prison uniforms

In a major shift from punitive measures, the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) has begun distributing red prison uniforms - previously designated for condemned inmates - to all prisoners.

The move, revealed during a media tour at Harare Central Prison yesterday, underscores ZPCS' growing focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment. The recent abolition of the death penalty in favour of life imprisonment has eased some of the logistical pressures concerning prison uniforms, allowing the service to repurpose the red attire as part of a broader reform strategy.

As part of its rehabilitation programme, ZPCS is deepening collaboration with community leaders, traditional authorities and church representatives to support the reintegration of inmates into society. Commissioner Christmas Tarwira, who oversees corrections, said the success of rehabilitation hinges on community participation.

"Prisons cannot work alone in the rehabilitation process. We are opening more avenues to engage the community with our stakeholders," said Commissioner Tarwira.

Zimbabwe's prisons continue to grapple with overcrowding and shortages of essential supplies. Harare Central Prison, for instance, holds 2 899 inmates against its official capacity of 1 128, leaving it overpopulated by more than 1 700 prisoners. ZPCS hopes that the introduction of a parole system will ease congestion while balancing public safety with rehabilitation opportunities.

"The selection of inmates eligible for parole has already commenced," said Commissioner Tarwira, adding that the system is designed to offer qualified inmates an opportunity for early release once they demonstrate readiness to reintegrate into society.

He also highlighted efforts to strengthen family ties as part of rehabilitation, noting that family visitation days are being expanded. "This year, we are increasing the number of family days, which allows us to assess communication between inmates and their families and helps us connect with them for reintegration purposes," he explained.

Beyond family engagement, ZPCS is also partnering with industry leaders to equip inmates with practical skills that can help them secure employment upon release. "Our engagement with stakeholders and industry leaders is aimed at empowering former inmates, discouraging recidivism, and helping them view prison as a place for personal growth," Commissioner Tarwira said.

Among the inmates benefiting from these initiatives is 27-year-old Tinashe Kamunakwenje, who is serving a 12-year sentence for rape. He said rehabilitation officers have helped him rebuild his outlook on life. "I have served four years now, and the officers are helping shape my future. I participated in the 2024 Starbrite music competition and won, though I am still awaiting my award," he said.

Another inmate, former professional footballer Agrippa Murimba (23), who once played for Black Rhinos and Manica Diamonds, is part of the prison football team and hopes to rejoin the Premier Soccer League upon his release. "I want to thank ZPCS for allowing us to engage with football players from outside. They visit us, and we play soccer together, which helps me maintain good relationships after my release," he said.

Murimba, currently serving a 22-year sentence for car theft, expressed remorse for his actions. "I regret stealing a vehicle in 2017, especially since I had just received my own car from Manica Diamonds Football Club," he said.

The ZPCS says its current reforms are designed not only to address the immediate needs of inmates but also to transform public perceptions of incarceration - shifting from punishment to rehabilitation and reintegration.

For Zimbabwe's correctional system, the once-feared red uniform now stands as a symbol of second chances and personal renewal.