By Violet Mashonga
Makonde District — In a landmark public-private partnership, Lomagundi Granite Mine has teamed up with the local farming community to rehabilitate the 45-kilometer Poverty Valley Road—an essential route connecting Chinhoyi, Mhangura, and Raffingora.
Once a treacherous and costly path, the road is now being transformed into a reliable artery of progress, unlocking economic opportunities for thousands.
At the heart of the initiative is Brian Bangira, Executive Chairman of Lomagundi Granite Mine, who worked closely with local farmers and Ward 15 Councillor Moses Nyamupondo to ensure the project addressed community concerns.
The effort has earned widespread local support, with village leaders and farmers hailing it as a game-changer.
Village Head Ngwarai Mutsvangwa voiced the collective relief of the community:
“Exorbitant transport costs have long burdened our farmers—we pay $10 just to reach Chinhoyi, making it hard to sell our produce. This road will ease that burden. Everyone here supports this project because it benefits us all.”
The project has also drawn praise from national leadership. Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Hon. Marian Chombo, recently toured the Lomagundi Granite Mine Project in Nyamugomba Village and commended the road initiative as a model of effective public-private collaboration.
“This is exactly what Vision 2030 is about: people building their own future. Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo—this land is built by its people,” Hon. Chombo said.
“I applaud Lomagundi Granite Mine and urge communities to support local investors driving regional development.”
Speaking to community members, Brian Bangira emphasized his company’s long-term commitment:
“This is not a one-off project. We’re here for the long haul. We’re targeting road completion within three months, and we’re determined to exceed expectations by delivering lasting, quality infrastructure.”
As construction advances, local farmers are already imagining the benefits: easier access to markets, improved transport for schoolchildren, and faster emergency services.
More than just a road, the Poverty Valley rehabilitation represents hope and momentum for a region ready to rise.
This partnership between Lomagundi Granite Mine and the Makonde community stands as a powerful example of what collaborative development can achieve—paving the way, quite literally, toward a more prosperous future.
Hon. Chombo
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