Story by Tamuka Charakupa
DEVELOPMENT efforts in Raffingora, Zvimba, have gathered momentum, with residents welcoming the construction of a fully fledged police station, one of several ongoing initiatives aimed at improving service delivery and strengthening public security.
The project, which is progressing through its foundation stages, forms part of a broader package of upgrades that includes a village information centre and solar-powered facilities at the local hospital. Collectively, these developments are reshaping the rural settlement and enhancing access to essential public services.
Community leaders say the police station will mark a turning point for local security, addressing long-standing concerns about slow response times due to the distance from the Mutorashanga base.
“We are excited to witness the transformation of this community. We now have an information centre where we access internet services, a solarised hospital to complement power demands, and now the establishment of a police station. Having the police right here in Raffingora will definitely reduce crime because officers will be able to respond quickly. Criminals used to take advantage of the distance to Mutorashonga, but now we expect to see a big difference,” Village Head, Mr Christopher Simawu said.
“The Second Republic has ushered in a new wave of development, one that fulfils the mantra of leaving no one and no place behind. This recent project brings peace of mind to us. It means our families, businesses, and livestock will be more secure. A full station shows that government is serious about our safety,” Village Head, Mr French Million noted.
“A police presence fosters unity. When the community and security services work closely together, it encourages people to report cases early, resolve disputes peacefully, and build trust among neighbours, added another Village Head, Mrs Neddy Dzumbunu.
Mashonaland West Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Marian Chombo, said Raffingora’s transformation reflects the power of public-private partnerships.
“The Second Republic continues to champion public-private partnerships as a key driver of development, ensuring that no one and no place is left behind. What we are witnessing here in Raffingora demonstrates how government, communities, and partners such as POTRAZ can work together to deliver tangible results. I commend POTRAZ for embracing fruitful partnerships that uplift our rural communities and ensure equitable access to essential services,” she said.
“This base was established back in 1979 and has been operating in that original state ever since. The transformation we are witnessing today is a milestone for both the police and the Raffingora community. We extend our sincere appreciation to the ZRP leadership, POTRAZ, and the local leadership for their unwavering support and commitment. Their collective efforts have made it possible for this base to be upgraded into a fully-fledged police station, a development that will significantly enhance our ability to serve, protect, and maintain peace in this growing community,” noted the Mashonaland West Police Administration, Assistant Commissioner Ezekiel Munengerwa.
Implementing partner, the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ), outlined the importance of collaboration in advancing community development.
“Our social responsibility initiatives are guided by the desire to improve the quality of life in underserved communities. We believe that development should be holistic beyond communication infrastructure to include security, education, and empowerment. Supporting the establishment of a fully-fledged police station in Raffingora is part of our broader commitment to national development and community wellbeing,” POTRAZ Director General, Dr Gift Machengete added.
The new police station will house specialised departments such as a victim-friendly unit, anti-stock-theft unit, holding cells and administrative offices.
