By Sibonginkosi Mpala
Residents of Zimbili Extension Villages 1 and 2 in Ward 19, Umzingwane District, call for the establishment of an Early Childhood Development (ECD) centre to serve local children, many of whom are forced to walk long distances to access education.
Community members, working under the Asibambane Federation in partnership with the local NGO Hope for a Child in Christ (HOCIC), say the absence of a nearby ECD facility places a heavy burden on both children and their families.
Sibongile Ngwabi, a community representative of the federation, said initial efforts to establish a crèche were unsuccessful after education officials advised that crèches were no longer prioritised under the current education policy.
The community then shifted its focus to securing an official ECD classroom with qualified teachers.
“We travelled to Gwanda in 2023, but were referred back to the district education offices in Esigodini,” said Ngwabi.
“They told us crèches are no longer supported, so now we’re requesting help to build an ECD classroom. Our hope is for HOCIC to help mobilise donors so we can construct at least one classroom. All we want is a shorter walking distance for our children.”
Ngwabi said the community has identified land for the classroom, but the project has stalled due to lack of funding.
“We were told that before we can get assistance, we must show commitment or progress but we don’t have any money. We are appealing to donors, NGOs, and government departments to support us,” she said.
Another concerned parent, Nokulunga Nyathi, highlighted the financial strain the situation places on families.
“We are forced to pay US$25 per child every month just for transport to the nearest school. That’s a lot of money for most households here,” she said.
Ward 19 Councillor, Pilate Sibanda, confirmed the community’s concerns had been brought to his attention.
“Parents approached me, and I raised the issue with the District Schools Inspector (DSI), who referred it to the provincial education office in Gwanda. However, when they came back, they were told that the Esigodini office should handle it. Since then, I haven’t received any update,” he said.
The councillor added that locals of Zimbili are “hopeful that their appeal will reach the right ears, and that urgent action will be taken to ease the burden on young learners in order to kick start their education journey.”
This story was produced as part of the CITE Youth Network training program, which aims to empower young women in rural communities with digital skills, enhancing their ability to create and share community news.