By Garikai Chikuvira
RUWA – A young man from Ruwa, Kundai Marimo, who recently walked out of the prison gates following the Presidential Amnesty issued by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, says he has emerged from incarceration with a “legal business mindset” and a hard-earned sense of maturity.
Marimo was among scores of youths swept up in a massive nationwide police crackdown on illegal drug activities during last year’s festive season. Now reunited with his family, he spoke candidly to Chaminuka about the physical and emotional toll of life behind bars.
“During the time I was inside, I learned that jail is no child’s play. It was hard,” Marimo reflected. “Every day was a reminder of what brought me there, to the extent that I told myself I am never looking back”.
The repentant youth expressed profound gratitude to the Head of State for the clemency programme, acknowledging that without the Presidential intervention, he would still be serving a lengthy sentence.
“If it wasn’t for the Amnesty, I would still be in prison. I had already made up my mind to change, and I am truly thankful. I do not take this opportunity lightly,” he said. Adopting the mantra “backward never, forward ever,” Marimo is now focused on rebuilding his life through honest means.
Despite the hurdle of lacking start-up capital, Marimo has developed several business concepts aimed at contributing positively to his community. His primary goal is to establish a legitimate enterprise, even if it begins on a small scale.
“If I can get a little capital, I would like to venture into poultry farming or any trading business,” he explained. “While I was inside, I realised the value of running a fruit and vegetable market—something that can keep me busy and help me earn a living peacefully”.
Using his personal ordeal as a cautionary tale, Marimo urged other young Zimbabweans to avoid the lure of “fast money” and illicit activities.
“To my fellow youths, I say this: don’t be misled by fast money. I was arrested, and it cost me my freedom. It is not worth it,” he warned. “Look for honest ways to earn, no matter how small you start”.
His journey serves as a poignant reminder that while mistakes carry heavy consequences, the lessons learned in the “university of life” can pave the way for a lawful and fulfilling future.
