FAITH NDOU
BIKITA- In classrooms across Bikita District, a simple cup of maheu powder is becoming more than a nutritional supplement, it is helping strengthen attendance, improve learner wellbeing and ease pressure on vulnerable households.
Bikita Minerals has reaffirmed its commitment to education and sustainable community development through the distribution of 14,000 kilograms of maheu powder to 17 primary schools during the second term of 2026.
What began in 2022 as a supplementary nutrition programme supporting approximately 5,000 learners has steadily expanded over four years and now reaches nearly 10,000 pupils across the district.
This year’s programme also welcomed Hozvi Primary School, further widening the initiative’s impact within the company’s host communities.
The intervention complements Government school feeding efforts while addressing a challenge widely recognised by educators — that learning outcomes improve when children have access to proper nutrition.
School authorities and community leaders say the programme’s impact is increasingly visible, with reports pointing to improved daily nutrition, more stable attendance and relief for families facing economic pressures.
Ward 12 Councillor Brighton Mushekwa praised Bikita Minerals for maintaining its commitment to communities and investing in young learners.
“This initiative is making a tangible difference in our communities. Proper nutrition is essential for effective learning, and by supporting our schools, Bikita Minerals is investing in the future of our children. We are grateful for the company’s consistency and willingness to partner with communities in addressing real needs that affect learners every day,” he said.
Beyond nutrition support, the programme reflects Bikita Minerals’ broader approach to community development, one that places education and human capital at the centre of long-term progress.
Bikita Minerals Primary School head Tsikirai Mudekunye, expressed appreciation for the donation.
“We appreciate the support from Bikita Minerals. Children are happy, and their health is improving,” he said.
Mudekunye added that the school received 400 kilograms of maheu powder which he said would go a long way in supporting learners.
Rusununguko Primary School head Rungano Begede, also welcomed the initiative.
“As a school, we are very happy. Our learners have been struggling with hunger and we have also seen an improvement in attendance and enrolment,” she said.
“Our learners receive Maheu every day and absenteeism has reduced.”
Begede added that learner participation in class has also improved significantly.
The company says it remains committed to sustaining the initiative and exploring collaborative opportunities to strengthen health, education and infrastructure support systems that contribute to resilient communities throughout Bikita District.
As thousands of learners continue to benefit each school term, the initiative stands as an example of how corporate partnerships can extend beyond business operations and deliver lasting value where it matters most in the classroom.
