By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
DAY Three of the ongoing Family Week at Beitbridge Prison took a new dimension on Wednesday as Beitbridge Mayor, Peter Pirato Mafuta, visited the correctional facility and addressed inmates, urging them to fully embrace rehabilitation as a key step towards successful reintegration into society.
The visit formed part of the broader Family Week programme being hosted by the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) Matabeleland South Province from April 6 to 12, 2026, which aims to strengthen family bonds and support inmate rehabilitation.
The Mayor’s visit was mainly to engage directly with inmates and encourage them during the course of the programme.
In his remarks, he said the importance of transformation and accountability among offenders.
“You are here to fix mistakes we have made in the past, to reform, and go out there and help others not to commit the same crimes that led them to be in prison,” said Mayor Mafuta.
“There is life after prison. We are here for correction.”
He encouraged inmates to take rehabilitation seriously, noting that correctional facilities are meant to prepare individuals for a responsible return to society.
Speaking to Ziyah News Network, Beitbridge Prison Public Relations Officer, Correctional Officer Dube Reaboka, said attendance had increased significantly compared to the previous day, with families and visitors coming in large numbers.
“People came in their numbers today compared to yesterday,” said Dube.
“We are encouraged by the response, and we continue to urge family members to keep visiting, especially those who have not yet had the opportunity to come.”
He also acknowledged the mayor’s presence at the facility, describing the visit as encouraging and supportive to both inmates and correctional officers.
“We are honoured by the visit from the Mayor of Beitbridge. His presence and words of encouragement go a long way in motivating inmates as they work towards rehabilitation,” said Dube.
He said the growing participation demonstrates the importance of Family Week in strengthening emotional and social ties between inmates and their loved ones.
The Family Week programme continues, with authorities expecting continued engagement between inmates, families, and community leaders as efforts to support rehabilitation and reintegration progress.