Story by Mercy Bofu
THE Tugwi Mukosi Secondary School constructed under the government’s devolution programme has been commissioned, bringing relief to the people of the Nyahombe area in the Chivi district where learners were travelling more than 20 kilometres to the nearest school.
Villagers in the area have applauded the Second Republic for constructing new schools in their area saying the development will go a long way in improving access to education and help curb child sexual exploitation.
Officially opened this Wednesday, the Tugwi Mukosi Secondary School has Form One and Two classes.
A resident told the ZBC News, ‘‘Our children have been travelling more than 20 kilometres to Shongamiti and other secondary schools around our area, but we are excited that we now have our own secondary school.’’
Another resident said, ‘‘Child sexual exploitation was now rampant in our area and we were struggling to pay transport fees for our children, but we salute our President for this programme.’’
Under the devolution programme, the government is on a drive to ensure no one and no place is left behind in national development.
Masvingo Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Ezra Chadzamira said, ‘‘As a province, we have benefited a lot under the devolution programme. We have seen schools being constructed, clinics being built, roads and boreholes being sunk. All these programmes are going to continue in our areas through the support from the government.’’
The local leadership is also working with the community to ensure construction works are complete by next year.
Chivi Rural District Council chairperson and Councillor Godfrey Mukungunugwa noted, ‘‘We are targeting to complete this school by 2024. This year we will build another block and by 2024, we are anticipating finishing this school and teachers’ accommodation.’’
Chivi South legislator, Honorable Munyaradzi Zizhou said, ‘‘As community members, we support these developments in our areas hence we commit ourselves to assist wherever necessary.’’
Since 2019, Chivi Rural District Council has received nearly ZW$200 million under the devolution programme which has been key in the construction of two schools, a clinic and sinking of a number of boreholes, among other projects.
