By Panashe Karidzagundi
THE Salvation Army Beitbridge Corps marked Zimbabwe’s 46th Independence Day in a unique and compassionate way on Saturday, April 18, 2026, by providing meals to more than 240 inmates at Beitbridge Prison.
The initiative, held under the theme “There is Joy in Jesus,” combined both physical and spiritual nourishment, as inmates received food together with a message of hope, love, and transformation through the Gospel.
Beitbridge Prison Rehabilitation Officer Leroy Ndlovu applauded the gesture, describing it as a crucial contribution to inmate rehabilitation.
“We would like to appreciate the Salvation Army Beitbridge Corps for playing a pivotal role in addressing our rehabilitation concerns. Today, as we celebrate Zimbabwe’s 46 years of independence, their presence here forms part of the broader government and societal approach to rehabilitation,” said Ndlovu.
“They came to celebrate with the inmates, bringing joy and reminding them that they are still part of society,” said Ndlovu
Major David Musungo of the Salvation Army said the outreach was deeply emotional and spiritually significant.
“My heart is overwhelmed seeing relatives, friends, and families receiving food today, as we commemorate Independence Day, we also brought a Gospel message of spiritual independence. God is love, and we are here because of that love,” Musungo said.
Inmates showed gratitude for the visit, showcasing the impact of both the food and the spiritual teachings.
One inmate, Nelson Ringirai, thanked the Salvation Army for their message.
“We are happy for what they have done for us today. Their teaching about love in Jesus has touched us,” he said.
Nkosikhona Moyo another inmate said similar sentiments, praising the visitors for their compassion.
“They brought us food and the Gospel, the love they showed us should never fade, and we will also share it among ourselves,” Moyo said.
Thulani Tshuma an inmate said the visit encouraged unity among inmates.
“They taught us to love one another, to stay united, and to support each other so we can grow and empower ourselves,” said Tshuma
Brian Matura, Secretary of the Beitbridge Salvation Army Prison Fellowship Ministry, said the outreach is part of an ongoing effort to support inmates through spiritual guidance and practical assistance.
“This ministry is dedicated to bringing hope, restoration, and the message of God’s love to inmates. We want them to know they are not forgotten and that transformation is always possible,” he said.
He said the fellowship regularly conducts programs during key occasions such as Christmas, Father’s Day, and Mother’s Day, and works closely with prison authorities on rehabilitation initiatives.
“Today’s Independence Day outreach was not just about providing food, but about sharing compassion, fellowship, and a sense of belonging. We believe that through consistent acts of kindness and spiritual support, lives can be transformed and hope restored,” Matura said.
The event was a role of faith-based organisations in complementing government efforts to rehabilitate offenders, offering inmates a renewed sense of dignity and the possibility of a second chance.