A MAN made the agonising decision to have his own daughter imprisoned after years of her involvement with a “wrong crowd” and disrespect towards him, reveals the Zambia Correctional Service (ZCS)
The drastic measure, taken to save her from a destructive path, culminated in a tearful reconciliation at the Chinsali Correctional Facility on October 9, 2024.
The father, Mwape Mwila, reported his daughter, Chola Mwape Mwila, to authorities after she broke into his grocery shop on June 14, 2023, and stole K2,000 worth of goods.
This act was the culmination of Chola’s five years of increasing defiant behaviour, including insults and a complete disregard for the values her father attempted to instill.
Initially, Mwila tried to address Chola’s behavior privately. However, facing what he described as an unbearable situation, he ultimately made the heartbreaking decision to take the matter to the Justice System, resulting in Chola’s two-year prison sentence.
Upon her incarceration, Chola reportedly harboured anger and bitterness towards her father.
However, through Restorative Justice and Peacebuilding (RJPB) counseling offered at the Chinsali Correctional Facility, her perspective began to shift.
She came to understand that her father’s actions were not motivated by hatred but by profound, unconditional love.
The emotional breakthrough occurred during a face-to-face dialogue facilitated by correctional staff.
Mwila expressed his deep pain and unwavering love for his daughter.
“I never stopped loving you,” he told her, “I just wanted to see you change.”
According to ZCS Mwila spoke of the importance of choosing the right company and living by the rules of one’s own home.
“A person’s life lies in the ears,” he said, “and the armpit will never exceed the shoulder.”
Overwhelmed with emotion, Chola reportedly wept and sought her father’s forgiveness.
“Dad, I now understand. I’m sorry for all the pain and shame. Thank you for loving me enough to correct me,” she said.
Wardress Chilumba Susan and Warder Ngandu Simon were credited with facilitating the healing encounter.
“This is what Restorative Justice looks like not just mending broken laws, but healing broken families,” wrote the Zambia Correctional Service.
Kalemba June 30, 2025
