Imbizo paves way for reintegration of parolees of Zonderwater

The Zonderwater Correctional Services (ZCS) took a significant step towards fostering the successful reintegration of ex-offenders by teaming with a faith-based organisation during a community imbizo recently in Kwa-Mhlanga.

This offender rehabilitation initiative held at the Dominion Life Cathedral Church drew community members and stakeholders like the CPF, the South African Social Security Agency and the departments of Health and Labour.

“The event came as the aftermath of various challenges faced by parolees, probationers and their caregivers in the community,” said Mashudu Mutamba, the communication officer at the ZCS.

Thandiwe Makhubela, the Zonderwater community corrections head, emphasised the pressing challenges parolees and probationers face, including stigma, family care, caregiver involvement and post-release support.

Makhubela urged stakeholders to collaborate, reinforcing that “corrections is a societal responsibility”.

Acknowledging the harm caused by offenders, Makhubela appealed to communities and caregivers to extend support for successful reintegration.

She highlighted the church’s role as a catalyst for transformation, fostering positive change in the communities where ex-offenders reside.

Apostle Sukazi of the cathedral recounted the pain his church has endured because of crimes like break-ins and hostage situations.

He lamented how thieves targeted the church, driven by misguided notions of finding money or valuables. Despite the harm caused, Sukazi pledged to support parolees and probationers, emphasising the church’s commitment to forgiveness and restoration.

“We believe that during your incarceration, you participated in rehabilitation programmes that transformed you into better and accountable individuals,” Sukazi said.

He also called on parolees to prove their transformation to their families and communities, rebuilding trust through their actions.

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“The parolees and probationers found reassurance and renewed hope when they realised that the stakeholders, the community, churches, and their families still care deeply for them. This support was solidified through pledges to assist in their reintegration journey.

“This comes after the Department of Labour facilitated the process of registering parolees and probationers on its employment database, enabling them to access job opportunities and support their families.

“With the event gathering pace, caregivers had critical concerns, especially regarding offenders still in custody, and they were subsequently satisfied for it to be effectively clarified,” Mutamba said.

During his closing remarks, Thobani Ngubane, a social work manager at Zonderwater, stressed the significance of a comprehensive rehabilitation approach focusing on emotional well-being and practical reintegration.

Ngubane said the department continues to assist communities in supporting rehabilitated offenders, reducing the risk of reoffending.

“Parolees, I urge you to support your families while working to restore dignity and foster a crime-free society,” Ngubane concluded.