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Nelias Shiri
The Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) is spearheading community development through the construction of social amenities such as clinics and schools across the country.
This has seen the organisation cooperating with local communities and other stakeholders in various projects. The projects have had a significant impact on the communities and on the relationship between the organisation and the general population.
Areas where the organisation has undertaken community projects include Samanyika School in Nyanga, Wichens Secondary School in Banket and Nikita Mangena Clinic in Mwenezi.
Stakeholders, community leaders and beneficiaries in these areas hailed the organisation for its role in transforming the livelihoods of various communities.
Mr David Dzambacheka, the headmaster of Samanyika Primary School in Nyanga North, Manicaland, applauded the ZNA’s commitment to improving the learning environment in disadvantaged communities.
He said the construction of a three classroom block by ZNA artisans has created a conducive environment for both the learners and the staff. The school buildings had developed cracks and some roofs blown away by natural disasters.
“The one block of three classrooms is a huge turning point, as it will deliver a conducive learning environment to children,” said Mr Dzambacheka.
Mr Dzambacheka praised the sense of camaraderie and togetherness he experienced working with members of the ZNA engineers on the project.
“The expertise and commitment shown by members of the ZNA cannot go unrecognised. In fact, it depicted that ZNA as a community centred security organisation. The soldiers we worked with here were so disciplined, hardworking and focused,” added Mr Dambacheka.
In Banket, Mashonaland West, Wichens Secondary School Development Committee (SDC) chairperson, Mr Jonathan Chiyanike, welcomed the construction of one block of two classrooms and an administration block by the ZNA.
“The collaboration between the ZNA and the community on this project has brought joy by improving access to better educational facilities at this school. The school had no administration block making it difficult for teachers to discharge their duties professionally,” said Mr Chiyanike.
The chief executive of Mwenezi Rural District Council, Mr Albert Chivanga Ndlovu hailed the ZNA for availing artisans to assist in the construction of Nikita Mangena Clinic in Chief Mazetese’s area.
“Access to health facilities in this area had been so bad to an extent that pregnant mothers and sick people would walk 20 kilometres to Chirindi Clinic. The construction of this clinic is a welcome development and a relief to the community,” he said.
Mr Ndlovu commended the cordial relations that exist between the ZNA artisans and the community.
“I am actually pleased to see the ZNA partnering with the community in this noble initiative. The ZNA members working here are well-disciplined soldiers who are committed to their job. We relate perfectly well. In fact, people here used to think soldiers were unfriendly but, their humility, brotherhood and hardwork has been unbelievable,” said Mr Ndlovu.
Eight projects were officially handed over to communities during the first week of August as part of the 2024 ZDF Community Assistance Week.
Other projects which are on various stages of completion and earmarked for handover in future are Nikita Mangena Clinic, a girls’ dormitory at Nhowe Secondary School in Macheke and one single storey eight roomed classroom block at Warren Park 6 Primary.
Online Reporter