THE EFFECTIVENESS OF HUMAN RIGHTS SUPPORT PROGRAMMES IN ZIMBABWEAN PRISONS: A CASE STUDY OF THE ZIMBABWE PRISONS AND CORRECTIONAL SERVICE

THE EFFECTIVENESS OF HUMAN RIGHTS SUPPORT PROGRAMMES IN ZIMBABWEAN PRISONS: A CASE STUDY OF THE ZIMBABWE PRISONS AND CORRECTIONAL SERVICE

OBEY JASI

MBWIRIRE JOHN

This research study outlined the effectiveness of human rights support programmes offered by Non-Governmental Organisations at Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service in the Harare Metropolitan Province. ZPCS had formed partnerships with NGOs to address human rights issues concerning incarcerated prisoners. A mixed research methodology approach was employed, gathering data from correctional officers, NGO representatives, inmates and independent commissions. A quantitative sample of 300 participants was drawn using probability sampling, while a subsequent qualitative sample of 60 was purposively selected from a population of 894. The research utilised self-structured questionnaires and key informant interviews. The findings indicate a strong understanding of human rights among participants. However, the majority perceive the human rights support programmes as ineffective. Key challenges identified include a pervasive atmosphere of mistrust between ZPCS and NGOs, a lack of tailored interventions and inadequate internal capacity within ZPCS to manage these programmes effectively. The study recommends establishing a central human rights coordinating office at the ZPCS national headquarters, developing a comprehensive organisational human rights policy and conducting thorough needs analyses prior to programme implementation. These steps aim to enhance collaboration, improve the alignment of NGO activities with ZPCS’s needs, and ultimately strengthen the protection of human rights for inmates.

The Zimbabwe Open University Journal of Applied Social Sciences

2026