A new correctional policy is beginning to reshape life inside Zimbabwe’s prisons, as authorities confirm that selected inmates can now receive temporary leave to return home to be intimate with their partners. The initiative, which allows private family time commonly referred to as conjugal rights, is part of a pilot programme designed to strengthen family ties and support rehabilitation rather than punishment alone.
The Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service ZPCS says the scheme reflects a broader shift toward corrective justice. The trial phase is currently underway at Marondera Female Open Prison and Connemara Prison, where inmates with records of good conduct are being considered for the visits. Prison officials describe the programme as an early component of a wider parole framework that is gradually being introduced across the system.
Speaking on the development, ZPCS spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Meya Khanyezi emphasised that family involvement is central to genuine rehabilitation. She explained that maintaining intimate and emotional bonds helps prepare inmates for reintegration into society after serving their sentences.
“The upcoming parole system will also address conjugal rights for inmates,” Ass Comm Khanyezi said. “Many in Marondera Female and Connemara Prisons have already begun to enjoy these rights while serving their sentences. Conjugal rights will be at the comfort of their homes not in prisons.”
She added that the responsibility for reforming offenders does not rest solely with correctional authorities, but also with the families and communities inmates come from and will eventually return to.
“As ZPCS, we cannot solely rehabilitate inmates. Their families and communities must also play a vital role. Prisoners come from the community and will eventually return there.”
Further insight into the policy was recently provided by the Commissioner General of Prisons, Moses Chihobvu, who addressed female inmates about the planned parole system. He said the reforms could allow certain prisoners to complete the remainder of their sentences at home under supervision. According to reports from December 2025, the announcement was met with excitement and celebration among inmates.
“We are in the process of implementing the parole system,” Comm Gen Chihobvu said. “Once operational, this system will allow some inmates to complete their sentences in the comfort of their homes.”
Under the proposed structure, a dedicated Parole Board will be responsible for selecting eligible inmates. Priority will be given to those who demonstrate consistent good behaviour and measurable progress in rehabilitation programmes, as authorities aim to balance public safety with humane and restorative correctional practices.
