Trymore Tagwireyi

Bikita Minerals is transforming the educational landscape of Bikita District through a powerful yet often overlooked tool—nutrition. Since launching its school feeding program in 2022, the mining giant has made a profound difference in the lives of hundreds of children across the province.

The Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative currently supports pupils at schools including Bikita Minerals Primary School, Domboshava, Rusununguko, Marinda, Mandindi, Beardmore, Makotore, and Mungezi Primary Schools. By providing nutritious daily meals, the program addresses short-term hunger while fostering long-term academic and social development.

According to the Headmaster of Bikita Minerals Primary School, the effects have been both immediate and substantial.

“We’ve seen a notable improvement in pupil attendance and admission rates. Pupils are now more motivated to come to school, knowing they’ll receive a nutritious meal,” he said.

Health professionals and educators alike have welcomed the positive ripple effects. Mr. Mungoni, a teacher at Rusununguko Primary School said the programme has gone a long way in eliminating hunger as a barrier to education.

“We’ve noticed a significant reduction in cases of malnutrition and related illnesses. Pupils are now more energetic and focused, which has improved their academic performance.”

The feeding program provides over 500 000 meals annually and has already yielded measurable results.

Data from the Bikita district education office reveals that attendance rates at beneficiary schools have surged from 70 percent to an impressive 90 percent. Additionally, enrolment has seen a 20% increase as more families are encouraged to send their children to school.

Bikita Minerals’ public relations and corporate responsibility officer, Collen Nikisi, emphasized the company’s continued commitment to the initiative.

“The school feeding program is now in its fifth year, and our target is to increase the number of participating schools beyond the current ten. We are conducting assessments in the district with the aim of alleviating hunger, increasing enrolment and pass rates, and reducing dropouts and absenteeism.”

The school feeding program has proven to be more than a charitable gesture—it is a strategic investment in the future of the community. By ensuring children are well-fed, healthy, and focused, Bikita Minerals is laying the foundation for a better-educated generation with improved prospects.

As the initiative expands, the hope is that more children across the district will have the chance to learn, thrive, and rise—powered by the simple but life-changing promise of a daily meal.