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Precious Manomano
Herald Reporter
An access bridge to Arcadia Lithium Mine in Goromonzi has been washed away by heavy rains, making it difficult for the company and community members to move.
This comes after the Department of Civil Protection reported that several houses around the country have been damaged, some of them collapsing, due to heavy rains that are being received in most districts.
After being washed away, the Goromonzi bridge was temporarily repaired by Arcadia Lithium Mine last Thursday in collaboration with the Government.
Communities said the destruction of the bridge greatly threatened economic activity in the area and hampered the company’s operations.
Goromonzi ward 16 Councillor Charles Majuru said the damage to the bridge prevented learners from attending school, while workers at the mine failed to cross.
He said production was greatly affected after suppliers failed to proceed to the mine.
Clr Majuru said the Goromonzi community had benefited a lot from the establishment of the mine, adding that 690 people were currently employed.
There was need to ensure that the bridge was reinforced so that it would not be washed again by heavy rains which the area is currently receiving.
Mr Samuel Chimuramba of Madhongo village said accessing shops and markets for their horticultural products was affected, causing serious losses.
“Children could not go to school for at least three days,” he said.
“We also failed to go and sell our products. We are now glad that temporary repairs were done. At least we can now proceed with our work.”
Another lithium miner in the area Mr Charles Mujeye said it was difficult for him to get his excavator which became stuck across the bridge, adding that he had suspended operations.
“There was nothing I could do,” he said. “Supplies to the mine have been affected. We are thankful that the company managed to fix the problem.”
Zimbabwe continues to receive normal to above normal rainfall in all the 10 provinces as predicted by the Meteorological Services Department.
On a positive note, the rains present an opportunity for good agricultural performance.
Online Reporter