Online Reporter
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]
CALEDONIA Mining Corporation, which owns Blanket Mine in Gwanda, has channelled more than US$10 million towards corporate social responsibility projects in Matabeleland South province.
This includes the establishment of a waiting mother’s shelter, solarisation of Sitezi Clinic, and construction of science and computer laboratories at Sitezi Secondary School, which were officially handed over to the community yesterday during a ceremony at Sitezi Clinic in Ward 8.
A state-of-the-art waiting mother’s shelter has been established at Sitezi Clinic, bringing relief to expecting mothers who have been travelling up to 20km to reach the nearest health facility. The facility now has modern ablution facilities, which will go a long way in improving health care services and reducing infant mortalities.
A 48KVA solar plant has been installed at the health facility to ensure an uninterrupted power supply, thereby improving health service delivery. The project also includes the establishment of a computer laboratory, 50 computers and interactive screens that have been installed in all classrooms to improve the learning processes.
The school that was established in 1981 and used to operate without a computer and science laboratory.
Over and above refurbishment of key infrastructure, the mining company has also donated furniture to the school and supports provision of safe, potable water to Sitezi Clinic, Sitezi Secondary School, Sitezi Primary.
Over the years, Caledonia, through Blanket Mine, has directed more than US$10 million towards projects that improve health, education, agriculture and livelihoods across Matabeleland South.
Speaking during the projects handover ceremony, Minister of State for Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Albert Nguluvhe, said the project brings life to the vision of President Mnangagwa, who has called for inclusive growth through the Devolution Agenda and Vision 2030.
He said development must not be concentrated to urban centres but must reach every ward, village and home.
“We are not simply handing over infrastructure, rather we are unlocking opportunities, restoring dignity and instilling hope,” said Nguluvhe.
“This comprehensive project, consisting of a fully equipped maternal clinic, a solar power installation, a state-of-the-art science laboratory and 50 computers, embodies the kind of progress that touches the heart of our community’s daily lives.
“Allow me to sincerely commend Caledonia Mining Corporation and the Blanket Mine team for their unwavering commitment to sustainable community development. Your corporate social responsibility investments, now amounting to nearly US$10 million, are a powerful demonstration of your confidence in Zimbabwe’s future and in the people of Gwanda,” he said.
Minister Nguluvhe said the handover is a reminder that when stakeholders work together and align efforts with purpose lives will be transformed. He said the Government will continue to create an enabling environment for responsible investors like Caledonia. He encouraged other companies to follow suit and embrace partnership and community investment.
“To the people of Sitezi, these projects belong to you. Please take ownership, safeguard these facilities, and make full use of them. To the mothers, may this clinic be a place of safety and new beginnings,” he said.
“To the teachers and students, may the new classrooms and laboratory ignite curiosity and open doors to future careers in science, technology and innovation.”
Caledonia Mining Corporation chief executive officer, Mr Mark Learmonth, said the company was part of communities it operates in nd values the needs of the peole.
He said the Sitezi projects represent a shared investment in the well-being and potential of this region.
“We are proud that our efforts align with the Government’s Vision 2030 and the Devolution Agenda, which place people and communities at the heart of development. Working closely with the ministry, the Gwanda Rural District Council, the Gwanda Community Share Ownership Trust and our local chief we will ensure that every dollar spent reflects the priorities of the people who live here,” said Mr Learmonth.
Matabeleland South provincial education director, Mrs Beatrice Manjere, said they were delighted to witness the transformation of Sitezi Secondary School learning spaces. She said the new infrastructure will enhance the teaching and learning experience, providing a safe, secure, supportive and conducive environment for learners to grow, develop and thrive.
Mrs Manjere said good infrastructure in schools plays a crucial role in enhancing the learning experience and outcomes for pupils.
“The investment done at Sitezi Secondary will have long-term benefits for the pupils, teachers and the community, contributing to improved academic outcomes, increased pupil retention and a more positive learning environment,” she said.
Matabeleland South provincial medical director, Dr Andrew Muza, said establishment of the waiting mothers’ shelter and solarisation of the health facility, among other interventions, align with the Government’s target of improved health care services. He said this will help reduce the maternal mortality rate.
