Online Reporter
Kuda Bwititi, Zimpapers Politics Hub
BIKITA Minerals, a subsidiary of the Chinese Company, Sinomine Group has invested US$22 million to boost energy supply for its operations and for communities living in the Bikita District and surrounding areas.
The company is also ramping up its corporate social responsibility programmes after committing US$1 million for a modern health centre.
In a statement, Bikita Minerals spokesperson, Mr Collen Nikisi said:
“We have invested US$22 million to improve energy supply. From this amount, US$20 million was for the construction of a 132KVA 112-kilometre powerline from Mashava to Bikita Minerals. In addition, US$2 million was allocated for the rural electrification programme for Bikita, Gutu and Zaka.”
According to Mr Nikisi, the electrification project is expected to be completed by December.
The company is working on water and sanitation projects and has so far drilled 38 boreholes in Masvingo to reduce water challenges in the province.
It has also funded the construction of two primary school classroom blocks and staff quarters. To date, two houses have been donated to Zvido and Sanangwe schools while Makwirivindi Primary School received building materials.
Mr Nikisi said they have also provided support to the health sector by funding the construction of the US$1 million state-of-the-art health centre.
Further, the company is investing in children in Bikita District by providing nutritious drinks for primary school learners.
Bikita Minerals started the nutritious drinks project in 2022 when they realised there were high school dropouts in the district. Maheu drinks and other foodstuffs are being distributed at 12 schools with over 5 000 pupils benefitting.
A representative of Domboshava Primary School in Bikita District said the nutritional programme has resulted in improved pupils’ attendance.
Bongani Ndlovu