Chase Skuza Unites Ex-Convicts to Tackle Stigma and Push for Reintegration

BULAWAYO – Popular musician Chase Skuza has partnered with fellow ex-convicts to establish an association aimed at fighting stigma and fostering reintegration into society.

The initiative, known as the Desistant Champions Bulawayo Chapter, was founded by former inmates who realized that despite serving their sentences, they continued to face discrimination in their communities.

Skuza, who served a six-month sentence at Bulawayo Prison for fraud, said his time behind bars was an eye-opener, allowing him to interact with inmates from diverse backgrounds and participate in rehabilitation programs.

“My conviction in 2015 made me understand the hardships ex-convicts endure after release. While in prison, we encouraged each other to engage in rehabilitation programs to prepare for life outside,” he said.

The Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) has introduced various skills development programs, including agriculture, mechanics, arts, and tailoring, to equip inmates for life beyond prison.

However, many ex-offenders struggle to find employment due to their criminal records, leading to economic exclusion and social rejection.

Skuza told Herald that their association aims to expand nationwide, advocating for ex-convicts’ rights and helping them secure resources to rebuild their lives.

“Many ex-convicts leave prison with valuable skills, but they lack funding or land to start businesses. This pushes some back into crime for survival. We want to change that,” he explained.

The group is actively seeking partnerships with organizations to provide startup resources that will help former inmates establish self-sustaining projects and contribute to the economy.

Chairperson of the Desistant Champions Bulawayo Chapter, John Marufu, confirmed that plans are underway to launch their manufacturing projects, which include soap, dishwash, and animal feed production.

“We are working on logistics so that our products will soon be available for purchase. This initiative is about empowering ex-convicts while offering affordable goods to the public,” Marufu said.

As the organization grows, members hope to engage authorities to push for fair policies that allow ex-convicts to reintegrate and rebuild their lives.