scenes at the handover event
BY MUNYARADZI BLESSING DOMA
The Goromonzi community has expressed profound gratitude to Prospect Lithium Zimbabwe (PLZ) after many families and individuals received food hampers, a timely support which brought relief and joy.
This gesture by PLZ, ensured a dignified and joyful festive season for many beneficiaries, who could not hide their joy during the handover event which was held at PLZ Sports Ground in Goromonzi.
Speaking to this reporter after the event, many beneficiaries said they appreciated that PLZ had continued to give back and stand with the people of Goromonzi beyond its mining operations.
“I want to appreciate what was done by PLZ because they always remember us every Christmas.
“We are always happy with this good gesture and we pray that they continue doing this for us. We are really grateful,” said Plaxedes Pari.
Similar sentiments were also echoed by Plaxedes Mubayira, a widow from Plot 6, Lowfield Farm in Ward 13, who said apart from the Christmas food hampers, they really applaud PLZ for employing their children at their mine.
“For some of us who are widows, we want to appreciate how PLZ managed to employ our children.
“We also want to appreciate how this company comes to our aid when we have our agriculture field shows where they support us financially.
“They have also done a lot in terms of improving the education sector in this community because they have helped us by building classroom blocks and teachers’ houses.
“Another great thing which PLZ has also done includes construction of our roads and we are really grateful and I think by 2030, all road will be greatly improved,” said Mubayira.
She added that it was the third time that PLZ had given them a Christmas cheer, and this goes a long way in feeding many families.
Wilfred Mucha was equally grateful for the gesture by PLZ, saying that many families were going to be happy during Christmas.
“We appreciate the gesture by these Chinese investors for remembering the community members who reside where they are mining from.
“This shows that they think of us and they are committed to giving back. We also appreciate how this company has been employing our children, hence empowering them.
“As the people of Goromonzi, we want to keep showing full support to these Chinese investors who are working here because they are always there for us and helping when there is need,” said Mucha.
Also speaking at the event, Yu Long, PLZ ESG Director, said the company was humbled to celebrate this spirit of togetherness with the people of Goromonzi as they presented food hampers to many members of the community.
“Christmas reminds us that compassion is not just a gesture, it is a responsibility. “As PLZ, we firmly believe that progress is meaningful only when it uplifts the communities around us.
“Our presence here in Goromonzi is not just about mining lithium; it is about building relationships, supporting local families, and ensuring that no one is left behind.
“We are especially mindful that just a few days ago, the world commemorated International day of Persons with Disabilities, whose theme for 2025 is “Fostering Disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress”.
“This day encourages us to reflect deeply on inclusion, dignity, and equal opportunity for persons living with disabilities. PLZ stands committed to these values. “We recognise the daily strength, resilience, and contributions of persons with disabilities, and we are determined to continue supporting initiatives that empower them,” said Long.
He added that elders in the community are the foundation (of this community), as their wisdom, sacrifices and continued guidance inspires PLZ.
“This small gesture is our way of thanking you, of letting you know that you are seen, valued, and appreciated.
“To the Goromonzi district leadership and all our stakeholders who made today possible, we express our sincere gratitude. “Collaboration is the heartbeat of community development, and we look forward to strengthening these relationships in the years ahead.
“As we hand over these Christmas hampers, let us remember that the true gift is not the food itself, but the love, respect, and unity they represent. May this festive season bring warmth to every home, peace to every heart, and renewed hope to every family,” added Long.
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Traditional leader Chief Chinyika thanked PLZ for remembering the people of Goromonzi, adding that the company had done many great things in their community.
“There are great things that have happened between the community and PLZ which we appreciate.
“May God bless you and continue to bless you, we need to work together to transform this community.
“We appreciate that you employ our children and may you continue to employ them, so that they (children) can take care of their parents and guardians.
“I’m happy that there is so much progress on our road, soon it will be finished so I’m happy about that too,” added Chief Chinyika.
