Online Reporter
Victor Maphosa
Mashonaland East Bureau
INTER AFRICA bus owner Dr Learnard Mukumba opened a state-of-the-art shopping mall in Macheke, Mashonaland East Province over the weekend as private players continue to play a pivotal role in developing the nation.
The complex is expected to transform the social and economic landscape of Macheke and the surrounding areas by offering a wide range of services under one roof.
Facilities at the village include a fully stocked grocery shop, a butchery, a modern restaurant, a sports bar, accommodation units, a service station and a children’s play centre, making it a convenient stopover for travellers and a recreational hub for locals.
The complex was officially commissioned by Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training Minister Tinoda Machakaire.
In his remarks, Minister Machakaire commended the developments.
“This is what President Mnangagwa means when he says “Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo”,” he said.
“I want to commend Dr Mukumba for this kind of development. Indeed, Vision 2030 can be achieved with this kind of development. You are complementing the Government in terms of development, and we should applaud you for that.
“As a Minister of Youth, I want to thank Dr Mukumba for creating employment here in Macheke. My appeal is for you to consider the youth in this area when it comes to job opportunities. We must work together tirelessly to fight drug and substance abuse among the youth by creating employment.”
In his remarks, Dr Mukumba said he was inspired by President Mnangagwa’s vision and the “Nyika Inovakwa Nevene Vayo” mantra.
“When President Mnangagwa said ‘Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo”, he meant that Zimbabweans should build their nation, and that motivated me to do development and create employment for the people,” he said.
“I am also inspired by the President’s commitment to developing the nation, and I told myself that if I have the capacity to develop, then I will do it. I am happy that today we are commissioning this complex, which is now the biggest in Macheke.
“I am not going to stop here. I plan to build a modern private school in Macheke soon. I will also build a clinic that will be well-equipped, near this complex, so that people can get assistance nearby. This is my vision, and I will see to it that it is fulfilled,” Dr Mukumba said.
He went on to thank the Government for the support that has enabled him to make developments.
“We will continue to complement the Government in developing the nation. My wish is for Macheke to be a town, or even a city. We can make it happen if we work together.”
