THE Zambia Correctional Service (ZCS) is set to embark on an innovative venture that will not only address prison congestion but also generate substantial revenue.
The ZCS has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Chenguang Biotech Zambia Agri-Dev Limited to cultivate marigolds in the Lukanga Swamps of Chibombo District.
Marigold, a plant of the daisy family, usually coloured yellow, orange, or copper-brown, is cultivated as ornamental and has been known throughout history as a flower used to treat different skin conditions.
Under the terms of the agreement, prison inmates will be employed to cultivate and harvest marigolds. This initiative is expected to generate an annual revenue of K60 million.
This was disclosed at the 2024 senior officers’ Annual Ball in Lusaka on Friday by ZCS Commissioner General Fredrick Chilukutu who disclosed that the MoU with Chenguang Biotech Zambia Agri-Dev Limited was signed early this year.
Chilukutu said the MoU comes with the package of a full-fledged correctional centre of a holding capacity of 5,000 inmates and staff housing complex of 200 officers.
“This is a double impact as it addresses decongestion and raising revenue amounting to K60,000,000 per annum,” he said.
Chilukutu said when the MoU is operationalised, it will help the ZCS actualise the Inmate Earning Scheme, which prescribes that inmates engaged in revenue generating ventures should earn an income that will facilitate the reintegration process and economic empowerment upon discharge.
Meanwhile, in response to the Presidential directive on self-sufficiency in uniform production, the ZCS has partnered with Zambian Perfect Textiles and Brand Limited.
Chilukutu said the collaboration with Zambian Perfect Textiles and Brand Limited ensures the timely and cost-effective production of uniforms for both staff and inmates.
He said the factory’s capacity, coupled with the training programme for officers and inmates, guarantees long-term sustainability and skills development.
By Benedict Tembo
Kalemba December 9, 2024
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