Published by the government of Zimbabwe
16 November 2009
Harare — Eighty-five inmates at Chikurubi Farm Prison were on Saturday baptised by representatives of the Zimbabwe Prison Service Chaplain-General and vowed to lead changed lives when released.
A gathering of different Christian denominations and non-governmental organisations witnessed the baptism.
ZPS Mashonaland Regional Chaplain Superintendent Robson Madzivanyika said the baptism followed consultations with churches.
"We decided to baptise inmates after realising that our rehabilitation was incomplete without changing the soul of the inmates.
"We started the programme in June this year with the baptism of 102 inmates at this prison and I can confirm that there is a significant change in their behaviour."
He said the programme would spread to all prisons in Zimbabwe.
Celebration Ministries International Pastor Winnie Kanoyangwa said the inmates' baptism was a "miracle" and pledged to support the programme.
She applauded Government for allowing churches to preach the word of God to prisoners.
"This really, is a miracle and we pledge our support for this noble cause."
Jameson Makonda (24), jailed for rape, said he would be a law-abiding citizen and asked for his victim's forgiveness.
"I am born again and promise that I will never commit an offence. I want to ask for forgiveness from the person that I raped as I am now a man of God," he said.
Prison Fellowship Zimbabwe director Mr Peter Mandiyanike urged inmates to live by their promise to God.
"The baptism you received today marks the beginning of a new life and I urge you to keep the promise."
The baptism was witnessed by representatives from the Seventh Day Adventist Church, Life to Life Africa, Prison Fellowship Zimbabwe, Celebration Ministries International, the Apostolic Faith Mission Church and the Christian Community Partnership Trust.
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