Story by Josephine Mugiyo
PRESIDENT Emmerson Mnangagwa says the Second Republic remains committed to developing rural communities through harnessing local resources.
He was speaking at the Miners for Economic Development Conference held in Gweru this Wednesday.
With Zimbabwe having adopted the heritage-based Education 5.0 model which places emphasis on a practical education that responds to the needs of industry, President Mnangagwa says innovation hubs have become instrumental in creating rural economies.
He cited the Mapfura Industrial Park in Mwenezi as an example of how communities are changing livelihoods through utilising local resources.
“The Second Republic is focusing on developing communities. In Mwenezi they were not utilising the mapfura, now the ladies just pick their mapfura and take it to the local plant and get paid. At the Bindura State University, they produce masawu, yoghurt and the skin ointment from masawu is very good,” said the President.
Turning to the mining sector, President Mnangagwa said the country should use its own skills and means to harness its vast mineral deposits.
“You as miners are at the centre of building this country. Those who know about Zimbabwe don’t ask what minerals you have, but ask what you don’t have. We should not be poor in this country. We have vast minerals unexploited. They don’t rot. Let’s not have a wish to ask others outside to mine them. Let’s work until our children can mine them,” he added.
The Head of State said after more than two decades of sanctions, Zimbabwe has successfully started looking within for solutions to its economic challenges.
“When they put the sanctions, they thought the people of Zimbabwe will revolt. But through it all the people of Zimbabwe have stood firm,” he noted.
The President also used the platform to preach peace ahead of the general elections set for the 23rd of August.
