The Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) is strengthening its contribution to national agricultural production following the commissioning of two centre pivot irrigation systems at Hurungwe Prison Farm, a development expected to significantly boost crop output and enhance food security.
ZPCS Commissioner-General Dr Moses Chihobvu commissioned the irrigation systems, this Tuesday, marking a major milestone in the Service’s agricultural production drive.
The new irrigation infrastructure has the capacity to cover 60 hectares of land, with 30 hectares earmarked for sugar bean production, while the remaining 30 hectares will support future cropping programmes.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, Commissioner-General Chihobvu said the investment demonstrated ZPCS’s commitment to complementing Government efforts to increase agricultural production and strengthen national food security.
“Agriculture remains a key pillar of our production strategy. As ZPCS, we are committed to utilising our land resources, embracing modern farming technologies and ensuring that our correctional institutions contribute meaningfully to national food security and economic development,” he said.
He said the successful implementation of agricultural projects at correctional institutions reflected the Service’s transformation from being solely focused on custody and rehabilitation to becoming an active contributor to national development.
He further commended officers for their dedication, hard work and commitment to production, saying the progress achieved at Hurungwe Prison Farm was a result of teamwork, discipline and innovation.
“Every officer, regardless of rank, has a role to play in ensuring the success of our production programmes. Unity, transparency and teamwork remain critical in achieving sustainable results,” he said.
The irrigation project is expected to enhance year-round production by reducing reliance on rainfall and improving the farm’s capacity to produce crops on a commercial scale.
The Commissioner-General also toured the farm’s existing agricultural projects, including an 80-hectare wheat crop and vegetable production initiatives.
He was informed that the farm currently has 23 000 cabbage heads ready for the market, while the onion project comprises 450 000 onions ready for harvesting, another 450 000 onions at the bulbing stage and one million seedlings undergoing transplanting.
The increased production capacity is expected to contribute to local food supplies while generating revenue to support the operations of the Service.
Dr Chihobvu also toured the Phakamani Women’s Club Project, where members are involved in the production of cabbages, tomatoes, carrots and sweet potatoes.
He applauded the women for their commitment, resilience and entrepreneurial spirit, encouraging them to continue expanding their production efforts.
The Commissioner-General said agricultural projects within correctional facilities also played a critical role in equipping inmates with practical skills that would support their reintegration into society.
He encouraged inmates to actively participate in rehabilitation and skills development programmes, saying acquiring productive skills would improve their prospects after release.
The Hurungwe Prison Farm project is part of broader efforts by ZPCS to utilise available resources, promote production and support Government’s development priorities under the country’s agricultural transformation agenda.
