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Gibson Mhaka
Zimpapers Politics Hub
FOR the people of Nenyunka, nestled deep down in Gokwe North District under Chief Nenyunka, this year’s Independence Day celebrations at Nembudziya Growth Point are more than just a national event.
They represent a dual celebration: one of national pride and a personal achievement, as the primary school, which President Mnangagwa mandated to be built with devolution funds in 2021, in their area, now nears completion.
Nenyunka Primary School stands as one of the district’s model schools, showcasing the standards of quality education that the Government aims to achieve. This accomplishment is a testament to the effective use of devolution funds, transforming a previously underserved area into a hub of modern learning.
The area is located approximately 90km northwest of Gokwe town and borders Binga.
It all started on November 11, 2021, when President Mnangagwa visited Chief Nenyunka’s homestead to launch the cotton Pfumvudza/Intwasa programme.
On that day, the President declared that the Second Republic is committed to developing the area that for years has been lagging.
He then mandated the Gokwe North Rural District Council (GNRDC) to use part of its devolution funds to construct a standard primary school in the area.
“We are here today just to show you that not a single person, community, district or Chief will be left behind in national development matters. I heard that Chief Nenyunka doubted that I would make it today because in history, he has never hosted such a huge event.
“Let me tell you that you will never be left behind when it comes to issues of national development. Roads and schools will be constructed because it is our goal to tar roads.
“I am grateful to Chief Nenyunka who allowed people to congregate. Zimbabwe is 41 years old and this side of the country has been left behind that is why we are here today to tell you that you will no longer be left behind again,” he said then.
President Mnangagwa pledged to transform Nenyunka Primary School, which had relocated from its old site in 2018, into a well-equipped learning environment that will benefit children in the community.
The President also pledged to ensure that a solar-powered borehole is drilled at Chief Nenyunka’s homestead for both horticultural production and primary water supplies for schools and households.
As Zimbabwe celebrates its 45th Independence Day at the Main Arena in Gokwe North Open Grounds, it’s important to highlight the significant transformation of the area. A visit to the site, compared to its state before President Mnangagwa’s 2021 visit, reveals a complete and remarkable change.
The construction of classroom blocks and 12 houses to accommodate 24 teachers at the local school has progressed significantly, with four units fully completed and the remainder nearing completion.
The administration block, which was at window level during President Mnangagwa’s 2021 visit, now stands fully finished, a testament to the accelerated development.
The teachers’ cottages, designed with family living in mind, feature a lounge, three bedrooms, a bathroom, and a toilet, providing comfortable and modern accommodation.
Furthermore, fulfilling a promise made, a solar-powered borehole has been drilled at Chief Nenyunka’s homestead, ensuring a sustainable water supply for the community.
This infrastructure development reflects the Government’s commitment to improving the lives of residents in the region, aligning with the spirit of independence and progress.
The changes are not just cosmetic; they signify tangible improvements in education, housing, and access to essential resources, showcasing the positive impact of development initiatives in the lead-up to the national celebration.
Other schools in the district, constructed using devolution funds, include Nyamazengwe, Mutora, and Gumunyu primary schools. These projects represent a broader effort to improve educational infrastructure across the region, ensuring that even remote communities have access to quality learning environments.
The construction of these schools signifies a commitment to equitable access to education, a crucial step in building a more prosperous future for Gokwe North.
In an interview, Nenyunka Primary School head, Mr Taurai Chikaya, hailed President Mnangagwa and the Second Republic for prioritising development at the school.
“We are immensely grateful to the Government for the swift and substantial progress we’ve witnessed here,” Mr Chikaya stated.
“The construction of the classroom blocks and teachers’ accommodation is at an advanced stage of completion, and the impact is already being felt.
“However, we earnestly appeal for the remaining structures to be completed as quickly as possible to ensure that both our teachers and pupils have the necessary facilities to thrive. Completing these projects will significantly enhance the learning environment and provide much-needed housing for our educators.”
Gokwe-Kabuyuni Member of Parliament Cde Spencer Tshuma hailed President Mnangagwa for the devolution policy.
“This shows that the President is a man of action; he walks the talk; he just doesn’t talk about things he is not going to fulfil. The progress being made at the school is in line with President Mnangagwa’s promise that no part of Zimbabwe will be left behind in the country’s developmental trajectory as we work towards the attainment of Vision 2030,” said Cde Tshuma.
“Gokwe North was one of the constituencies which has been lagging in terms of development, but with the coming of the Second Republic, we are seeing massive development in the constituency.
“The development is in line with the Second Republic’s thrust to improve quality, inclusive and equitable development to ensure that no one and no place is left behind. Very soon, people will not be looking down upon the constituency as they currently do.”
Extensive infrastructure development witnessed in Gokwe North, including the construction of classroom blocks, teachers’ houses, and the solar-powered borehole, directly reflects the Second Republic’s core principle of leaving no one and no place behind in national development.
Furthermore, these developments are perfectly in line with the Independence Day Celebration theme, “Zim@ 45: Devolve and Develop Together towards Vision 2030.”
The devolution of development efforts to areas like Gokwe North exemplifies the Government’s strategy to empower local communities and promote regional growth.
Through investing in infrastructure and essential services, the Second Republic is fostering a sense of ownership and participation in the nation’s progress.
This collaborative approach, where development is pursued together, underscores the importance of inclusivity and shared responsibility in achieving Vision 2030, ensuring that all Zimbabweans benefit from the nation’s journey towards prosperity.
Online Reporter