Online Reporter
Freedom Mupanedemo, Midlands Bureau
THE Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) has handed over a modern classroom block and ablution facilities at Mpumelelo Primary School in Mkoba, Gweru, as it continues to make a lasting impact on communities through its Community Assistance Programme.
The newly constructed block that was officially commissioned on Tuesday as part of the ongoing ZDF Community Assistance Week, is a major boost to the school and surrounding community where it is going to provide a safe and conducive learning environment for pupils.
Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) Chief of Staff, Major-General Asher Walter Tapfumaneyi, presided over the handover ceremony.
He said the initiative reflects the ZDF’s long-standing commitment to supporting national development beyond its traditional defence mandate.
“Following the launch of the Community Assistance Week programme by the Minister of Defence on 28 July, the ZDF has handed over numerous projects to various communities across the country,” he said.
“As provided for in the constitution, the ZDF’s role in military aid to civil ministries includes contributing to the provision of essential infrastructure, such as this classroom block, which will enhance the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education’s efforts to provide quality education to the people of Zimbabwe.”
Maj-Gen Tapfumaneyi said the latest project exemplifies the ZDF’s people-centred approach, grounded in community service and development.
“Our corporate social investment initiative aims to give back to the community through the construction of modern facilities like this one,” he said.
The project, Maj-Gen Tapfumaneyi said was undertaken by 5 Infantry Brigade’s artisans, who were deployed on March 9 to support early childhood development.
“I urge the teaching staff at Mpumeleo Primary School to ensure that our children are protected from the scourge of drug and substance abuse, as they are our future leaders. This project showcases innovation and excellence,” he said.
In his remarks, Gweru City Council mayor, Councillor Martin Chivhoko, said the school project demonstrates the power of partnership and teamwork.
“Your efforts in constructing these facilities will undoubtedly enhance the learning environment for our children, providing them with a safe and conducive space to grow and develop. These new facilities will significantly improve the learning conditions for our pupils, providing them with a safe and conducive environment to grow and develop,” he said.
“The classrooms are designed to promote effective learning and the ablution facilities will ensure the health and dignity of our pupils. This investment in our schools is an investment in the future of our children and our community.”
Clr Chivhoko also reflected on the school’s proud legacy and the importance of continued investment in education.
“We are proud of the school’s achievements and look forward to continued success in the years to come. As we look to the future, we recognise that there is still much work to be done,” he said.
“We will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that our schools provide quality education and a safe learning environment for all our children. We will strive to address the challenges that face our education sector, including infrastructure development, teacher training and resource mobilisation.”
