Communities in Nkayi, Matabeleland North, are appealing for financial assistance to support local development initiatives aimed at improving education, healthcare, and entrepreneurship.
These community members presented their proposals to potential local and international investors at a Diaspora Investment event, hosted by the USAID-funded Amalima Loko program.
The proposed projects include the construction of clinics, school blocks, science laboratories, and support for entrepreneurial activities such as baking, carpentry, and welding.
Community leaders said these initiatives were driven by challenges in accessing essential services like health and education. They explained that Early Childhood Development (ECD) learners, as well as older students, often walk long distances to reach school, discouraging some from completing their studies.
At Dakamela Secondary School, the community plans to build a science laboratory to enhance the quality of science education. In the healthcare sector, members highlighted the need for closer clinics, particularly for expectant mothers requiring maternal care.
The following projects require funding:
| Project | Amount | Contact Person | Phone Number |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sombengo Primary School Construction | $33,500 | Nomathemba Ncube | 07840618194 |
| Tsheli Clinic Construction | $28,000 | Mthokozisi Gumede | 0774013536 |
| Gonye Secondary School Construction | $23,190 | Elliot Khumalo | 0716888621 |
| Dakamela Secondary School Lab | $57,000 | Dingilwazi Mbiba | 0774615521 |
| Kwesengulube Clinic Construction | $26,500 | Thembelihle Sibanda | 0718301620 |
| Mjena Clinic Construction | $26,500 | Primrose Ngwabi | 0779576495 |
| Welding Equipment | $950 | Proud Ncube | 0776086423 |
| Baking Equipment | $1,000 | Miriam Juba | 0717263082 |
| Masiwothane Burial Society | $1,000 | Siphilisiwe Moyo | 0716487579 |
| Welding Equipment | $1,300 | Zibusiso Ncube | 0771633977 |
| Carpentry Equipment | $1,100 | Mbonisi Sibanda | 0780734362 |
Nkayi traditional leader, Chief Dakamela, praised Amalima Loko for supporting these community projects, highlighting that the initiatives would not only improve service delivery but also create jobs.
“These are real challenges that we face as a community. We appeal to well-wishers to donate generously towards these critical projects. We also urge the central government to expedite the rehabilitation of our roads, as poor infrastructure is delaying the transportation of materials needed for project completion,” said Chief Dakamela.
Amalima Loko Chief of Party, Dominic Graham, commended the community for its forward-thinking initiatives, adding that similar projects in Binga, launched after a similar event in April, have made significant progress.
