By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
THE Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) has appointed Assistant Commissioner Jabulile Mathema as the new Deputy Officer Commanding for Matabeleland South Province.
Her appointment comes following the death of Assistant Commissioner Rever Mbedzi earlier in March.
According to ZPCS reports on its official Whatsapp Channel Assistant Commissioner Mathema officially assumed duty on April 28, 2026, joining provincial station tours led by Officer Commanding Matabeleland South Province, Commissioner Cleopas Mzila Moyo.
The tours are aimed at strengthening operational efficiency, leadership and discipline across correctional institutions in the province.
During the visits, Assistant Commissioner Mathema toured several stations, including Gwanda Prison and Plumtree Prison, where she met Officers-In-Charge and staff members.
Speaking after assuming office, Assistant Commissioner Mathema expressed gratitude for the appointment.
“I am grateful to the Commissioner-General of ZPCS, Dr Moses Cyril Ngawaite Chihobvu, for trusting me with this responsibility. I am dedicated to working hard and meeting the expectations of both the organisation and the nation,” she said.
Commissioner Moyo said the station tours were designed to align the organisation’s strategic direction with operations on the ground.
“This tour is not just about inspection; it is about aligning our strategic vision with the realities on the ground. We want to ensure that our officers are equipped, motivated, and committed to transforming lives,” he said during a visit to Plumtree Prison.
He said Assistant Commissioner Mathema’s appointment would strengthen administrative capacity and enhance informed decision-making within Matabeleland South Province.
The delegation also toured the farm at Plumtree Prison, where Commissioner Moyo called for increased agricultural productivity and efficient land utilisation to support institutional self-reliance and national food security.
According to ZPCS, the tours form part of ongoing efforts to improve service delivery, operational effectiveness and rehabilitation programmes within correctional facilities across the province.