11/12/2025
Zimbabwe Prisons Embrace Rehabilitation Through Conjugal Rights and Parole System
In a landmark shift towards rehabilitation, the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) has announced that select inmates will soon gain access to conjugal rights while serving their sentences. The initiative signals a move away from purely punitive measures, placing greater emphasis on correctional practices and reintegration.
Only inmates who have demonstrated exemplary behaviour and adaptability to correctional measures will benefit from the programme. At Marondera Female Open Prison and Connemara Prison, some inmates have already begun enjoying conjugal visits during the holiday season.
With Unity Day approaching, several inmates will also be temporarily released to celebrate the festivities with their families, before returning to their facilities after New Year.
Speaking to female inmates recently, ZPCS Commissioner-General Moses Chihobvu unveiled plans for a parole system designed to benefit all women at the open prison.
“We are in the process of implementing the parole system,” said Comm-Gen Chihobvu. “Once operational, this system will allow some inmates to complete their sentences in the comfort of their homes.”
The announcement was met with applause, with inmates expressing gratitude through song and kneeling in appreciation, exclaiming, “Tinotenda nerudo rwakadai!” (“We thank you for this love!”).
Comm-Gen Chihobvu stressed that parole eligibility will be carefully determined by professionals from the Parole Board, prioritising inmates who have shown genuine progress in rehabilitation initiatives.
Earlier this week, ZPCS opened prison gates to allow inmates to reconnect with their loved ones until Sunday, part of a broader effort to strengthen rehabilitation and reintegration.
ZPCS spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner Meya Khanyezi, encouraged families to embrace the opportunity, underscoring the importance of community involvement in the reform process.
“As ZPCS, we cannot solely rehabilitate inmates,” said Asst Comm Khanyezi. “Their families and communities must also play a vital role. Prisoners come from the community and will eventually return there.”
She urged the public to visit prisons nationwide, bringing gifts to express love and support, reinforcing the message that prison should not be seen as a permanent home.
Assistant Commissioner Khanyezi further noted that the upcoming parole system will extend conjugal rights to inmates, but emphasised that these will be enjoyed in the comfort of their homes rather than within prison walls.
