Midlands Provincial Affairs and Devolution minister, Owen Ncube, has issued a strong warning to illegal miners against engaging in unregulated activities that destroy public infrastructure.
Speaking at the recent commissioning of the new US$600 000 Globe and Phoenix primary school in Kwekwe, Ncube called for responsible mining in the province that protects both human and animal life.
The new educational facility was constructed by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in partnership with government following the decommissioning of the old Globe and Phoenix Primary School in 2023.
Illegal underground mining activities resulted in the destruction and collapse of the school forcing learners to be temporarily transferred to Sally Mugabe Primary School where they used make-shift learning facilities.
“Strict adherence to responsible mining must be enforced,”Ncube said.
“I therefore urge all miners in the Midlands province to protect public infrastructure such as schools, clinics, roads, dams, water and sewer reticulation systems from vandalism during mining activities.
“We say no to open pits that endanger livestock and people’s lives.
“Trees should be planted to promote ecosystem restoration.”
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Ncube commended the church for its timeous intervention that saw the construction of seven classroom blocks, an administration and ablution blocks as well as installation of a 10kVA solar system, supply of desks, chairs and tables for both students and teachers.
Primary and Secondary Education minister, Torerayi Moyo, applauded the collaboration between the church and government in the construction of the educational facility.
“This transformation examples the power of public-private partnerships, showcasing how collaborative efforts can lead to substantial improvements in educational infrastructure,”Moyo said.
“Globe and Phoenix stands as a testament to the impact of these partnerships providing quality education that empowers our students with essential knowledge, skills and values.
“The investment by the church in Zimbabwe’s future is commendable and sets a precedent for others to follow.”
Moyo commended the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for constructing educational facilities across the country’s provinces including the Midlands, Harare, Bulawayo and Mashonaland East.
