Electrification project commissioned

Walter Nyamukondiwa in Makonde
Acting President Phelekezela Mphoko has commissioned the Kenzamba electrification project which is expected to trigger economic development in the remote district of Makonde in fulfilment of Zim-Asset goals.

Speaking at the lighting ceremony, Acting President Mphoko said Zimbabwe should leverage on its vast mineral resources to uplift the lives of people.

“Resources are plenty in this country and there is no reason why we cannot uplift the lives of communities,” he said. “As I was coming here, I told the Minister of State (Mashonaland West) Cde Faber Chidarikire that there is so much wealth in the province.”

Acting President Mphoko said efforts should be made to resuscitate moribund mines like Alaska and Mhangura to create employment.

Turning to the ruling party, he said zanu-pf should start campaigning ahead of the harmonised elections in 2018.

Acting President Mphoko said Makonde demonstrated that it supported zanu-pf and the party should do everything to uplift the lives of people in the district.

“You have demonstrated that you love your party zanu-pf and President Cde Mugabe and the party should ensure that it fulfils your desires,” he said.

“We should start campaigning now for 2018.”

Acting President Mphoko said Government was working to secure investment, citing the Great Dyke platinum mining project being undertaken in Darwendale with the Russians.

He said Makonde district needed a similar arrangement to create employment and eradicate poverty in fulfilment of Zim-Asset goals.

The Kenzamba electrification project lights up Kenzamba Primary and Secondary Schools and four Government departments.

Addressing the same gathering, Energy and Power Development Minister Dr Samuel Undenge said provision of electricity was key in empowering rural communities.

The Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority said it will provide 160 computers for the electrified schools, while NetOne would provide network coverage and 3G connectivity in the area.

The switch-on ceremony was attended by Senate President Cde Edna Madzongwe, Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister Prisca Mupfumira who is also the Information, Media and Broadcasting Services Minister Acting Minister and ICT Minister Cde Supa Mandiwanzira.