Zimbabwe's Justice Ministry plans to convert the former execution chamber at Chikurubi Maximum Security Prison into a museum and a community radio station headquarters. Permanent Secretary Vimbai Nyemba announced the initiative on Wednesday, describing the colonial-era gallows as a potential heritage site that could generate revenue while educating visitors about the country's past.
The Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service received approval to operate The Bridge Radio, a community station covering a 40 to 45-kilometer radius. Nyemba visited the facility to assess the impact of recent resentencing efforts following the abolition of capital punishment, meeting with former death row prisoners who expressed appreciation for their commuted sentences.
Of 48 inmates previously awaiting execution, only three remain to be resentenced. Most prisoners thanked President Mnangagwa for the legal reform, which Nyemba characterized as ending a colonial practice. The ministry administers the Abolition of the Death Penalty Act and continues to monitor rehabilitation programs for affected individuals.
The Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service received approval to operate The Bridge Radio, a community station covering a 40 to 45-kilometer radius. Nyemba visited the facility to assess the impact of recent resentencing efforts following the abolition of capital punishment, meeting with former death row prisoners who expressed appreciation for their commuted sentences.
Of 48 inmates previously awaiting execution, only three remain to be resentenced. Most prisoners thanked President Mnangagwa for the legal reform, which Nyemba characterized as ending a colonial practice. The ministry administers the Abolition of the Death Penalty Act and continues to monitor rehabilitation programs for affected individuals.
