HARARE – Thousands of inmates walked free from prisons across the country on Monday under an amnesty ordered by President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
The Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS) began the nationwide release shortly after Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi confirmed that 4,305 inmates qualified for release under the 2026 clemency order which authorities said was designed to ease congestion in correctional facilities.
Of these, 223 are women and 4,082 are men, Ziyambi said.
He added that 3,755 inmates would be released immediately, while 327 others would be freed in phases.
“The 2026 amnesty is targeted and merit-based, focusing on vulnerable groups and those who have demonstrated significant progress in their rehabilitation,” Ziyambi said.
“To benefit, most inmates must have served at least one-third of their sentence by the date of gazetting.”
He said prisoners convicted of serious offences including treason, armed robbery, rape and public order offences were excluded.
At Harare Central Prison, emotions ran high as families gathered outside the gates. One inmate hoisted a poster of Mnangagwa above his head while others chanted “Mnangagwa huchi” (Mnangagwa is honey) and waved goodbye to former cellmates.
Beyond the celebrations were quieter moments of reflection from those who said their time behind bars had reshaped their outlook.
Elroy Manhivi, who served seven months for unlawful entry after stealing US$70 from her boyfriend to pay rent, described her release as a turning point.
“I will start afresh. This time I’m focusing on improving my life,” she said.
Demetrius Chauke, 55, freed from a six-month sentence for drug peddling, echoed that resolve.
“I have learnt a lot while I was locked up. I promise to change my way of life,” she said. “I was taught life sustenance projects which I’m looking forward to start when I get home.”
Farai Munemo, who leaves custody as a trained carpenter, said he intends to use his new skills to rebuild his life.
“We learnt a lot. I will stay away from crime,” he said. “I hope after my release I will be able to find capital so that I can venture into business.”
With thousands returning to their families and communities, Ziyambi urged the public to support their reintegration.
“Amnesty is not a dismissal of the gravity of the crimes committed, but an acknowledgment of the capacity for human reform,” he said.
“Successful reintegration is the most effective tool against recidivism.”
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