ZPCS aims to mould responsible officers 

Source: ZPCS aims to mould responsible officers – herald

Arron Nyamayaro

Zimpapers Reporter

ZIMBABWE Prisons and Correctional Service Commissioner-General Moses Chihobvu has implored male officers to confront issues of substance abuse, domestic challenges and play their roles within the home to foster stronger families and professional discipline.

Addressing a dedicated interface meeting titled, “Building Strong Officers Through Strong Families,” Comm-Gen Chihobvu said there was an intrinsic link between stable family life and a disciplined, effective correctional service.

“A successful institution is built on the foundation of strong families and a disciplined organisation is sustained by disciplined officers,” he told the gathering, which was facilitated by the service’s Gender Services section.

The meeting, mirroring a previously held successful forum for female officers, sought to create a safe space for male officers to reflect on the unique pressures they face both professionally and domestically.

“It was both appropriate and necessary to create a safe and structured platform for men,” Comm Gen Chihobvu stated, clarifying that the goal was not to apportion blame but to encourage constructive dialogue.

“As male officers, you are professionals, leaders, husbands, fathers, brothers and community members. Supporting your wellbeing strengthens your families, the service and society at large.”

Comm-Gen Chihobvu urged the officers to maintain exemplary conduct at all times, reminding them that they remain ambassadors of the ZPCS, whether in uniform or not. He particularly highlighted the dangers of substance abuse, linking it to impaired judgment, gender-based violence, and family breakdowns.

“Substance abuse compromises judgment, productivity, and career progression,” he said, advocating for early intervention and peer support. “Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.”

On marital relationships, the Commissioner General advised officers to view their spouses as equal partners.

“Your home should be a place of peace, not fear,” he said, stressing that mutual respect and loving communication are the bedrock of a healthy marriage. He described successful marriages as products of hard work, prayer, and proactive nurturing rather than chance.

“Shield your spouse with prayer and surround your marriage with supportive friends,” he said, warning that an officer who cannot manage his temper at home cannot be trusted to enforce discipline at work.

In her remarks, Deputy Commissioner-General Christine Manhivi commended the initiative, linking family peace directly to professional performance.

“Employees who fail to share their problems struggle to fulfil their duties,” she noted, revealing plans to hold future combined meetings with spouses to promote better mental health.

Commissioner Skhuleliwe Ndhlovu, in charge of Gender Services, said strong institutions start with the involvement of officers.

“When men are supported, discipline improves. Recognising that staff wellbeing strengthens institutions is crucial. Leadership support sends a clear message: ‘Men matter. Their well-being matters. Strong institutions start with supported officers.”

The meeting marks a significant step by the ZPCS to holistically address the well-being of its personnel, acknowledging that the strength of the service extends from the stability of the homes its officers return to each day.