Ray of hope for inmates

ZIMBABWE Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS) is rehabilitating inmates through the arts and four Mutare Remand Prison inmates are set to release their debut Zim-dancehall album soon.

Local gospel musician and self-styled prophet, Madzibaba John Karembera availed resources for the four to record the album.

Madzibaba Karembera, who owns Big Joker Records, said the inmates deserve a chance to realise their dreams. He said this will inspire other inmates. “There is a lot of artistic talent in the prisons, and it needs to be showcased. After committing crimes, the inmates are often shunned by society. However, it is crucial for society to realise that they are being rehabilitated in jail.

“Most inmates will be better people after serving time in jail,” he said.

“In other parts of Zimbabwe, inmates have always been getting chances to showcase their talent through music, so I want to provide that platform in Manicaland.”

One of the inmates identified himself as Peace or Jah P. He applauded Madzibaba John’s efforts.

“We thank him for according us a chance to showcase our talents regardless of the circumstances. What happened to that Jamaica artiste, Vybz Kartel, is also happening to us,”he said.

Several other aspiring artistes have undergone the ZPCS rehabilitation programme.

Ex-convict and talented singer, Elton Bushe, was jailed in 2008 for breaching the Precious Minerals Act. While serving his term, he released several albums. Some of his popular songs include “Zita RaJesu” and “Mwari Vanoona”.

ZPCS’s Manicaland provincial public relations officer, Liberty Mhlanga, said: “We are delighted that some organisations and individuals are coming on board to assist in the rehabilitation of offenders. People can make a living through.”