Online Reporter
Mkhululi Ncube
A 32-kilometre walk to Nkayi Business Centre by learners, teachers, parents, and community leaders from Sivomo Primary School on Friday has cast a spotlight on the desperate state of the school, which suffered extensive storm damage in both 2023 and 2024.
The walk, dubbed “Save Sivomo Primary School”, aimed to raise awareness and mobilise support for the US$39 000 needed to rehabilitate three classroom blocks. The disaster has left over 500 pupils learning in harsh, open-air conditions —particularly severe during the winter season.
United by a shared vision of restoring the school’s dignity and ensuring a safe learning environment, participants braved the early morning cold and challenging terrain to make their appeal heard. Along the way, well-wishers donated money and pledged their support.
By the time they arrived at Nkayi Business Centre around 1PM — tired, dusty, and hungry — their spirits remained high. They were warmly welcomed by the District Development Coordinator, Ms Matilda Mlotshwa, who commended the community’s resilience and passion for education.
School head Mr Ntokozo Ncube, who led the march from the front, described the situation as dire.
“Six classrooms were destroyed by storms in 2023 and again this year. Our learners are being taught in the open, exposed to harsh weather. Sometimes we try to cram them into the few remaining classrooms, but it compromises effective learning,” he said.
Mr Ncube noted that absenteeism had risen sharply due to the unfriendly learning environment. In addition to structural damage, the storms also destroyed furniture and essential stationery.
“We launched this campaign to raise funds in cash or kind. Quotations were done last term, and we need US$39 000 to cover steel trusses, IBR roofing sheets, and other building materials. This is a special plea to all well-wishers — we are targeting individuals, organisations, and businesses to help us,” he said.
He said that most schools in the district were built during the colonial era and are in urgent need of rehabilitation. Those willing to assist can reach him directly on +263 713 887 420.
Ms Mlotshwa said the initiative demonstrated extraordinary commitment.
“These parents have been struggling to raise funds on their own. This 32km walk is not just a fundraiser, but a powerful message of hope and determination. I appeal to the corporate world, NGOs, and individuals to honour this sacrifice by contributing to the cause,” she said.
Donations can be made to the Sivomo Primary Projects Fund.
FBC Bank, Jason Moyo Branch – Nostro Account Number: 11202 97720 777.
derick.khumalo