MINES and Mining Development minister Obert Mpofu, yesterday read the riot act to mining firms in Hwange, accusing them of failing to upgrade local schools.
Report by Nqobile Bhebhe, Senior Reporter
Mpofu, who has described himself as a “serious super minister”, was responding to Chilisa Secondary School headmaster Lunguza Ndlovu’s plea for donations.
“With immediate effect, South Mining Company should complete the construction of the science laboratories and the computer room fittings,” Mpofu ordered.
“Makomo Investments will erect the perimeter fence, Wankie Colliery will build the administration block and the Zimbabwe Power Company should electrify the school. If there are any representatives from these companies here who say they can’t afford, stand up and say so.”
Ndlovu expressed optimism that Mpofu’s “drive and influence” would yield results.
“With the presence of Mpofu here, we won’t remain the same,” he said. “I repeat we won’t remain the same. We will use his influence to convince local stakeholders to financially assist us on capital projects. We have seen his influence in Umguza.”
The laboratories require $40 000 to be completed.
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“President (Robert) Mugabe donated 10 computers, but we are not fully utilising them as we have limited electricity,” Ndlovu said.
Mpofu said companies in Matabeleland had to emulate those in Manicaland that were assisting communities in various projects.
“I am their boss. I give them licences,” Mpofu said. “I employ them, but they are not being responsible in some way.”
