In the heart of Hwange Town, a beacon of hope and progress now stands tall – a state-of-the-art community library constructed by South Mining (Pvt) Ltd, a leading coke production company. In response to President Mnangagwa’s call for mining firms to engage in infrastructure development that benefits the communities they serve, the mining company invested a staggering US$600,000 in the construction of this library.
The library is more than just a building; it is a testament to South Mining’s commitment to community development. President Mnangagwa himself inaugurated the first phase of the mine on July 16, 2020, urging mining companies to play an active role in uplifting the regions they operate in. Embracing this vision, South Mining has been actively involved in community development, striving to leave no one and no place behind.
The primary focus of the library’s design is to nurture the young minds of Hwange. With a capacity to accommodate up to 100 pupils at a time, the library features a cutting-edge computer laboratory equipped with internet access, online journals, and an extensive collection of books. The goal is to create a conducive environment for learning, laying a strong foundation for academic success and personal growth.
However, South Mining’s commitment to community growth extends far beyond the construction of the library. Since 2022, the company has been actively promoting local businesses by utilizing locally sourced resources. This emphasizes their belief in fostering both organizational and community growth.
According to Mr. Charles Muchabaiwa, South Mining’s public relations manager, We have constructed a state-of-the-art community library in Mpumalanga high-density suburb in Hwange. The Hwange local board donated 2500m2 for this initiative. The library building itself takes up 700m2, and the librarian’s accommodation occupies 100m2. The construction, equipping of the library, and the librarian’s four-roomed house amounted to a total of US$600,000. The well-equipped library will provide a conducive environment for learners to study and lay a good foundation for their academic work and life in general.
The impact on the residents of Hwange has been nothing short of remarkable. Employment opportunities have soared, and social well-being has significantly improved. Addressing the pressing issue of water access in rural areas, South Mining has drilled six boreholes, providing safe, clean drinking water for both humans and livestock. Moreover, these boreholes have facilitated the establishment of nutritional gardens, promoting food security and self-sustainability within the communities.
In addition to the library and water initiatives, South Mining has supported communal activities and social programs. They constructed a community hall in Madumabisa, providing a gathering place for villagers during group activities, social support, and public information initiatives. Furthermore, the company donated a twin cab (Toyota Hilux) to the Hwange Rural District Council to enable its personnel to reach communities and areas with poor road networks.
Education lies at the core of South Mining’s vision for social cohesion, peace, and economic development. As such, they continue to invest in educational initiatives, believing it to be a vital instrument for poverty alleviation and progress. In the words of the late Archbishop Desmond Tutu, the company’s philosophy resonates deeply: Do your little bit of good where you are; it is those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world.
South Mining’s commitment to community development and transformation through the construction of a state-of-the-art library and various other initiatives has brought about positive change in the lives of the people in Hwange. With a dedication to promoting education, providing clean water access, and supporting social programs, the mining company has proven that mining firms can play a significant role in fostering growth and development within the communities they serve.
