Online Reporter
GWANDA — IN a remarkable display of corporate-community synergy, Vubachikwe Mine threw open its gates to the public on Saturday morning to host a monthly clean-up campaign, transforming the mining area into a hive of environmental stewardship.
The initiative, which ran for two hours, saw a collaborative effort between mine workers, local residents, and state security officials.
Leading the charge on behalf of the Duration Gold-owned mine was the chief of security, Mr Max Ruza, who oversaw the operation alongside the Gwanda Rural Officer-in-Charge, who ensured law and order was maintained throughout the event. The local traditional leadership was also present, blessing the initiative and rallying the community to participate.
Addressing journalists shortly after the exercise, Mr Ruza expressed his satisfaction with the outcome, noting that the collective effort had left the mine’s surroundings in immaculate condition.
“This has been a resounding success. To see our workers, the community, and the police working hand in hand with a single goal of cleanliness is truly inspiring,” said Mr Ruza.
“I want to commend everyone for their dedication. I must also pledge that whenever initiatives of this nature arise — initiatives that are well-meaning and seek to better our environment — Vubachikwe Mine is, and will always be, willing to partner.”
Echoing these sentiments, mine spokesperson Mr Robert Mukondiwa provided context to the programme, revealing its origins in the highest offices of the land. He stated that the clean-up drive was a direct result of a national directive inspired by President Mnangagwa’s visit to Rwanda.
“This programme is close to our hearts because it stems from a vision introduced by the Head of State, President Emmerson Mnangagwa, following his tour of Rwanda, where a similar initiative known as Umuganda is practiced religiously,” Mr Mukondiwa explained.
Sharing a personal anecdote, Mr Mukondiwa revealed his direct exposure to the Rwandan model.
“I was personally privileged to be hosted by the-then Rwandan Minister of Local Government, Anastase Shyaka, who gave me extensive insight into how Umuganda fosters community cohesion and cleanliness. It is that spirit we are trying to replicate here today.”
Mr Mukondiwa further highlighted that while this particular event was a community-wide collaboration, the culture of cleanliness is not new to the mine. He revealed that mine workers have recently been holding frequent clean-up campaigns focused on Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) standards.
“We are not new to this. Our internal SHEQ teams have been conducting regular clean-ups to ensure a safe working environment. However, moving forward, we shall be accelerating these campaigns in the coming few months, integrating more with the community to ensure that the area around the mine is not only safe for us, but beautiful for everyone,” Mr Mukondiwa added.
The event concluded with a shared sense of purpose, as volunteers dispersed with the surrounding areas noticeably cleaner, marking a successful partnership between Vubachikwe Mine and the Gwanda community.
