Staff Reporter
Zimbabwe is set to take centre stage in Africa’s criminal justice reform efforts as it prepares to host the Regional Conference on the Parole System in Africa, a landmark event that will bring together correctional services experts from across the continent. The move signals Zimbabwe’s renewed commitment to human rights, prisoner rehabilitation, and progressive correctional justice.
Speaking during a post-Cabinet media briefing this Tuesday, the Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr Jenfan Muswere, confirmed Cabinet’s approval for the country to host the high-level conference.
“Cabinet considered and approved the hosting of the Regional Conference on the Parole System in Africa. This is a critical opportunity for Zimbabwe to showcase the progress made in transforming our parole framework and to learn from our peers across the region,” said Dr Muswere.
Zimbabwe’s hosting of the conference comes on the back of the recent enactment of the Prisons and Correctional Services Act, which expands eligibility for parole. Under the new framework, every prisoner regardless of sentence length or crime can apply for parole, provided they demonstrate good behavior, rehabilitation progress, and readiness for reintegration into society.
“Previously, parole was only accessible to those convicted of minor offences. The reforms now make it a universal consideration based on merit and rehabilitation,” Dr Muswere added.
The upcoming conference will focus on operationalising Zimbabwe’s newly established Parole Board, and provide a platform for sharing best practices, policy models, and successful reintegration programs from other African nations. The goal is to strengthen the parole system’s contribution to prison decongestion and restorative justice.
“This is not only about reducing the prison population, but also about recognising the humanity of offenders and giving them a second chance. It positions Zimbabwe as a leader in justice transformation,” said Dr Muswere.
In addition to parole reform, Cabinet also received a report on Zimbabwe’s participation in the Signing Ceremony of the Convention on the Establishment of the International Organisation on Mediation. The convention promotes peaceful resolution of international disputes through impartial and cooperative mediation processes.
“Zimbabwe reaffirms its commitment to international peace and justice. The organisation is built on principles such as respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the right of parties to choose their dispute resolution paths,” Dr Muswere explained.
He further noted that the convention emphasises good faith, cooperation, and non-interference, creating a platform for neutral, flexible, and effective international dispute mediation.
Together, these developments reflect Zimbabwe’s broader push towards justice reform, peace-building, and regional cooperation—underlining its evolving role in shaping fairer systems both at home and across Africa.
