Story by Jerold Sasa
RESIDENTS of Goromonzi District have welcomed ongoing community development initiatives by lithium mining company Prospect Lithium, citing improved infrastructure and social support programmes as evidence of growing collaboration between mining firms and host communities.
The appreciation follows continued progress on the rehabilitation and tarring of Majuru Road, a key access route linking surrounding villages to the Prospect Lithium Mine and other service centres. The project has already seen an additional four kilometres opened to traffic, improving connectivity and easing transport challenges that have long affected the area.
To date, eight of the 12 kilometres targeted under the road upgrade programme have been completed, significantly enhancing mobility for farmers, small businesses and residents who rely on the route for access to markets, schools and health facilities.
Ward Councillor for Goromonzi, Councillor Charles Million, said the project had delivered tangible benefits for the local community.
“We are very excited as locals that our road has been tarred, and we thank the mine for a job well done,” he said.
Community elder Mr Ralph Marimbizhike said the upgraded infrastructure was particularly important for agricultural activities in the district.
“As a community, we applaud the company for improving our road infrastructure, especially considering we are a farming community, so taking our produce to the market will not be a challenge,” he said.
Residents also reported improved access to essential services following the road upgrade.
“We used to have challenges in accessing services due to bad roads, but now that is a thing of the past.
“This company has really transformed our lives, so we are very grateful for that,” residents said.
Prospect Lithium said community development remains a key component of its operations.
“As a company operating here, we feel obliged to give back to the community so that their lives are improved,” Prospect Lithium Public Relations Manager, Ms Patience Mushore said.
The lithium mining giant also held an early Christmas party for the elderly and people with disabilities from Goromonzi District, which included the distribution of food hampers.
