The Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) recently officially launched a three-day Gender Sensitisation and Awareness Workshop at Harare Central Officers’ Mess, reinforcing its commitment to gender equality and inclusive institutional development.
The workshop, which is being attended by correctional officers from National Headquarters and the Harare Metropolitan Province, was officially opened by Deputy Commissioner-General Christina Manetswa Manhivi, who was representing the Commissioner-General of ZPCS, Dr Moses Cyril Ngawaite Chihobvu.
In her keynote address, DCG Manhivi emphasized that gender equality is central to professionalism and effective service delivery within correctional services.
“Gender sensitization is not about favouring one group over another. It is about fairness, professionalism, and maximizing the potential of every officer, regardless of gender,” she said.
She reaffirmed that under the visionary leadership of Commissioner-General Dr Chihobvu, ZPCS continues to align itself with national constitutional values of equality, dignity, and non-discrimination. She also highlighted notable progress in gender representation within senior leadership structures of the Service.
Chief Executive Officer of the Zimbabwe Gender Commission, Mrs Virginia Muwanigwa, commended ZPCS for taking deliberate steps to mainstream gender within a traditionally male-dominated sector.
“Gender equality is a constitutional imperative and a governance issue. Institutions such as ZPCS play a critical role in setting the standard for fairness, inclusivity, and respect for human rights,” said Mrs Muwanigwa.
She applauded the Service for partnering with the Zimbabwe Gender Commission and encouraged officers to become ambassadors of gender-responsive practices in their workplaces.
Commissioner Human Resources and Gender Services, Commissioner Sikhulekile Ndlovu, highlighted the pivotal role being played by the ZPCS Gender Services Section in driving awareness, policy alignment, and capacity building across the Service.
“As we strengthen gender responsive practices within our Correctional system, we draw inspiration from the National leadership’s stated commitment to promoting equality, dignity, and inclusion for all. In line with this vision, ZPCS leadership remains firmly dedicated to advancing gender-sensitive policies, safeguarding vulnerable groups and ensuring that our institutions reflect the values of fairness and respect under the visionary guidance of our Commissioner General,” she said.
She further noted that the Gender Services Section remains committed to building an inclusive, professional, and responsive correctional environment that reflects national values.
The workshop, facilitated by officials from the Zimbabwe Gender Commission, aims to equip officers with practical knowledge to address gender-related challenges within correctional institutions and strengthen workplace culture.
Through such initiatives, and guided by strong leadership, ZPCS continues to position itself as a modern, professional, and human rights-centred correctional service.
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