Staff Reporter
The Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) has reaffirmed its commitment to women’s empowerment through the Phakamani/SimukaiWomen’s Network initiative, which recently celebrated a landmark graduation ceremony at RestauranteStephanos in Harare.
The event, organized by the ZPCS` Commissioner responsible for Gender Services, Protocol, and International Relations, Commissioner SikhulekileNdlovu, saw participants receiving certificates after completing an intensive training programme. The workshop, facilitated by experts from the Zimbabwe Institute of Diplomacy and Zimbabwe Open University, covered key areas such as entrepreneurship, financial management, leadership, diplomatic relations, grooming, and conflict resolution.
The participants, comprising female ZPCS officers and spouses of male officers, underwent a week-long training programme covering various topics, including diplomacy, grooming and etiquette, leadership, entrepreneurship, and economic empowerment.
Speaking at the ceremony, ZPCS Deputy Commissioner-General Shepherd Mpofu, who represented the Commissioner-General of Prisons and Correctional Service, Dr. Moses C.N. Chihobvu, commended the graduates for their dedication to personal and professional growth.
“Your selfless dedication throughout this week has been inspiring. The certificates awarded to you today are not just pieces of paper; they represent the foundation for your future success and the empowerment of your communities,” said Mpofu.
The training aligns with the National Gender Policy and Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030, reinforcing the Government’s commitment to gender equality and the economic advancement of women.
Chairperson of the Phakamani/Simukai Women’s Network, Marian Chihobvu, expressed gratitude for the training, emphasizing its impact on participants.
"We are extremely grateful for this opportunity. We have learned so much, from entrepreneurship to etiquette and grooming. This knowledge will not end with us but will be shared with women in various provinces to ensure no one is left behind,” she said.
The initiative’s Provincial Coordinator, Rosemary Matipuwa, also highlighted how the training had reshaped their approach to leadership and organizational structures.
"This course has changed the way we do things. The way we conduct meetings will now be more structured and professional, incorporating the lessons we have gained here," she said.
Representing the Zimbabwe Institute of Diplomacy, Chairperson Vova Chikanda emphasized the importance of diplomacy and conflict resolution. He also stressed the role of economic empowerment in achieving national development goals.
“Women in leadership must master the art of diplomacy to create harmony and drive progress in their communities. Women’s financial independence is a key pillar of Vision 2030. Empowered women contribute to stronger families, better communities, and a more resilient nation," he said.
The Phakamani/Simukai Women’s Network continues to be a transformative force within ZPCS, fostering inclusivity, resilience, and innovation among women in the correctional service.
