Story by Tapiwa Machemedze
PUBLIC-private partnerships in Guruve District are driving rapid infrastructure development and improving access to essential social services, following the commissioning of three classroom blocks at Muroiwa Primary School and the near completion of Mbome Clinic.
Just a year ago, Mbome Farm lay largely idle. Today, the area has undergone significant transformation following the relocation of residents from Muroiwa and Mazhambe villages to pave way for the expansion of Eureka Mine.
Beyond the construction of new residential housing, the relocation programme triggered a completeoverhaul of Muroiwa Primary School. Two old classroom blocks were demolished and rebuilt, while an additional third block was constructed, ushering in modern learning facilities long desired by parents and teachers.
“It was difficult for us to imagine building such modern classroom blocks, but we are grateful. We now have facilities we never had before, including water, with two boreholes sunk for the school,” said one community member.
Another parent highlighted the broader transformation.
“Our school was very backward, but now it is rising. New classrooms have been built, together with houses for the headmaster and deputy head, and boreholes have also been sunk,” the parent said.
A fourth classroom block and additional infrastructure developments are in the pipeline, while construction of the Mbome Clinic is at an advanced stage and is expected to serve the growing community.
“We are happy with what Eureka Mine is doing. The clinic will make life much easier for us. Previously, some residents had to travel to Guruve or Kemusasa for treatment. This clinic will benefit the entire community,” said one resident.
Another villager echoed similar sentiments.
“We are grateful that the mine built a clinic for us. Once it opens, people will no longer have to travel long distances to access healthcare,” the resident said.
Eureka Mine Human Capital Support Services Manager, Mr Tinago Tinago, said the company invested US$2.3 million in corporate social responsibility projects last year and remains committed to addressing community priorities.
“These initiatives are not projects imposed by Eureka Mine. We work through community committees and government officials. The committees focus on community development and environmental issues, bringing together government departments and local leaders to identify priority projects each quarter,” he said.
Construction of Mbome Clinic is expected to be completed this month, with Government optimistic that the area will soon develop into Guruve’s newest business centre, further consolidating social and economic development through emerging business opportunities.
