Siphakeme .Mnindwa
Fairness Moyana in Hwange
HWANGE in Matabeleland North Province is basking in development glory following the commissioning of education and health infrastructure meant to improve service delivery in different wards across the district.
The developments have been made possible through collaboration by the district with various development partners and investors. They also touch on enhanced water and sanitation for improved livelihoods in the communities.
Notably, five new classroom blocks, primarily aimed at addressing infrastructural gaps in the Early Childhood Development (ECD) area were commissioned last week in Matetsi Ward, through the efforts of the Jafuta Foundation, Buy-A-Brick Foundation and More Community Foundation.
In Lupote Ward, Mother Africa Trust unveiled a state-of-the-art Waiting Mothers’ Shelter, while the United Methodist Church provided support for a new teachers’ cottage at Lupote Secondary School.
That marked the second cottage constructed by the church, which had previously funded a classroom block. Additionally, Sabona Trust contributed a new computer laboratory for the secondary school while Painted Dog Conservation (PDC) financed a modern classroom for Lupote Primary School.
Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution in Matabeleland North Richard Moyo celebrated the achievements during the commissioning of four projects at Lupote Primary School last week, highlighting their role in improving community livelihoods.
“It is a privilege to join you in commemorating the completion and handover of these projects,” said Minister Moyo.
“This reflects the significant development taking place in Hwange District, with multiple partners working collaboratively in one area — a true blessing for our community.”
He praised the community’s ability to forge strong partnerships with development organisations, reinforcing the Second Republic’s mantra, “Ilizwe lakhiwa ngabaninilo/ Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo.”
The minister also commended the Hwange Rural District Council (HRDC) for fostering an environment conducive to attracting development partners.
“While other councils struggle to draw in major contributors, HRDC has successfully supported infrastructure projects by providing materials such as bricks and sand, effectively lowering operational costs for development partners,” he noted.
Minister Moyo urged other organisations operating in Hwange or beyond to follow suit, supporting the construction of classrooms, computer labs, and waiting mothers’ shelters while ensuring these facilities are equipped and furnished.
He emphasised the need for development partners to align their efforts with HRDC’s revised Strategic Plan, which adheres to the Second Republic’s National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1).
“This strategic plan is essential for achieving the country’s Vision 2030 goal of becoming an upper-middle-income society,” Minister said.
Minister Moyo also held brief ceremonies at Lupote Clinic and Lupote Secondary School, where he applauded the innovative design of the new waiting mothers’ shelter, complete with an en-suite.
The solar-powered classroom block presented to Lupote Primary School was funded by the Jealous Mpofu Community Fund, which benefits from proceeds of the Tusk Wildlife Ranger Award and donations from friends in the Netherlands.
PDC senior tracker Jealous Mpofu, who comes from Lupote expressed his desire to give back to the community that supported him throughout his journey, particularly noting its role in showcasing his work in protecting the African Painted Dog.
The newly built classroom block includes two fully furnished classrooms and an office for the headmaster.
