BY JUSTMAN KUTYA IN MASVINGO
Scores of officers from the Zimbabwean Prisons and Correctional Services in the Midlands province were this week taken for a retreat by their leadership in the province. This helped them travel around most of the tourist attracting places that are found lying in Masvingo province. These officers, the majority of whom were men, were able to visit one of the world`s most ancient heritage sites, Great Zimbabwe monuments. The whole programme was meant to motivate the officers who have kept their nose to the grindstone in preparation as well as participation in several sporting activities.
Zimbabwe Prison and Correctional Service Officer Commanding Commissioner, Somemore Gate, hailed and justified the move saying the approach was meant to encourage the participants to remain glued in doing good.
“The introduction of sports tourism at Great Zimbabwe monuments as well as Lake Mutirikwi showcases the positive attitude of our correctional facilities. This Programme is a turning point. It unveils the bridge that connects the officers and the wider community.”
Commissioner Gate added, “I am proud of the efforts put forth by our officers to participate in this programme, their dedication to rehabilitation is evident. This initiative serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating the transformative power of sport in shaping lives”.
The Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service officers are greatly excited about their involvement in pioneering this program. Principal Correctional Officer (PCO) for Midlands Province,Tasunungurwa Chikwanda, could not hide his joy.
“Partaking in sport tourism provided us a sense of purpose and an opportunity to connect with people from different backgrounds. We are thrilled to contribute to the development of our country’s tourism industry at the same time showcasing our athletic prowess.”
The Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services Officers expressed the excitement surrounding these sport tourism initiatives. One of the Officers echoed that they have set a pace for other correctional service empires globally by the reason of this initiative.