South African company takes education investment to rural Zim

A South African investment company has contributed to efforts to strengthen science education at a rural secondary school in Zimbabwe after partnering with a local foundation to deliver a fully equipped laboratory.

Afribiz Invest was involved in the construction of the science facility at Sojini Secondary School in Mbembesi Village, outside Bulawayo, which was officially handed over on Saturday, October 31, following a 14-day construction period.

The initiative was spearheaded by Zimbabwean businesswoman Zodwa Mkandla through the Zodwa Mkandla Foundation, highlighting the role of cross-border business partnerships and private-sector support in improving educational infrastructure.

According to The Herald, the laboratory has a capacity of 60 learners and is expected to give pupils greater opportunities to conduct practical experiments rather than rely exclusively on theoretical lessons.

The facility could also help learners interested in pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering and medicine.

South African company expands its African footprint

Afribiz Invest is an infrastructure, property, construction and investment group founded in South Africa in 2005.

The company operates across several African markets, including Zimbabwe, where it established Afribiz Zimbabwe in 2013, according to its corporate website.

Its involvement in the Sojini project highlights the contribution that businesses operating across national borders can make to community development.

The laboratory initiative also received technical support from Laboratory Equipment and Consumables (Private) Limited, according to The Herald.

Zimbabwean businesswoman invests in former school

Mkandla’s involvement in the project carries a personal connection, as she attended Sojini Secondary School before returning to support learners from her former community.

Speaking at the handover ceremony, she said she wanted children from the area to have opportunities to become doctors, engineers, pharmacists and biologists.

The project also extended beyond education, with the foundation distributing food parcels, blankets and wheelchairs to vulnerable elderly residents.

Nearly 400 schoolgirls also received sanitary pads.

The handover was attended by senior government officials, including Primary and Secondary Education Minister Torerayi Moyo, who represented First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa.

The laboratory’s long-term impact will depend on its accessibility to learners, the availability of qualified science teachers and the consistent provision of materials needed for practical lessons.