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Crime Reporter

Government is in the process of extending the open prison system to female prisoners in Marondera, providing less restrictive detention conditions and playing a critical role in the rehabilitation and reintegration of female offenders back into society, a Cabinet minister has said.

Marondera Female Open Prison opened its doors in 2021, becoming the first such facility in the Southern African Development Community (Sadc) to afford mothers a chance to bond with their children by sharing meals and even supervising their homework.

The open prison system marked the dawn of a new era in prisoner management.

The Marondera Female Open Prison came after the success of a similar facility for men which opened its doors at Connemara in 2000.

Addressing journalists on the 16 days of activism against Gender-Based Violence this morning, Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi said the female prison in Marondera will prioritise access to vocational training and educational opportunities, equipping them with the necessary skills for employment upon release.

“Another novelty, we have achieved as Zimbabwe is extending the open prison system to female prisoners in Marondera, providing less restrictive detention conditions and playing a critical role in the rehabilitation and reintegration of female offenders back into society. This initiative aims to address the specific needs and challenges faced by female prisoners, promoting their successful reintegration into society and reducing recidivism rates.

“Moreover, the open prison system for female prisoners in Marondera will prioritise access to vocational training and educational opportunities, equipping them with the necessary skills for employment upon release,” he said.

He said his Ministry reaffirms is steadfast and dedicated to eradicating gender-based violence from society.

“Gender-based violence has no rightful place in a peaceful and democratic nation like Zimbabwe, and our unwavering commitment remains to protect the rights and safety of women and girls. Nonetheless, our mission is ongoing. There’s still much to be accomplished to ensure the complete realisation and reverence of women’s rights.

“We must persist in collaborating with all stakeholders, including civil society organisations and international partners, to strengthen our initiatives and amplify our influence in advancing women’s rights,” he said.