By Staff Reporter
Bikita Minerals has doubled its school nutrition programme, reaching nearly 10,000 learners
across 17 primary schools in Bikita District this year – up from about 5,000 in 2022, after
distributing 14,000 kilograms of fortified Maheu during the second term of 2026.
The mining company reaffirmed its commitment to community development, saying nutrition
was the foundation for learning.
In its statement, Bikita Minerals said the programme was part of its continued dedication to
supporting local education, improving student welfare, and delivering sustainable community
development.
What started in 2022 with support for about 5,000 learners has now doubled. Nearly 10,000
pupils are benefiting this year, with Hozvi Primary School added to the programme as the
company pushes its socio-economic footprint deeper into vulnerable communities.
School heads and local leaders say the results were showing up in attendance registers and in
children’s concentration. The programme also runs alongside the Government’s national school
feeding scheme, adding another layer of relief for households stretched thin.
Ward 12 Councillor Brighton Mushekwa welcomed the consistency of the support, saying the
development was making a difference in the community.
“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,” said Mushekwa.
Bikita District Schools Inspector James Mahofa confirmed Bikita Minerals’ input, saying the
mine was complementing the government and ministry’s efforts by providing a wash-down to the
school feeding programme that is already in schools. He said the Maheu was also nutritious,
making it part of a needed balanced diet.
“Bikita Minerals is doing a great job there. They are complementing our efforts. The drink is
nutritious, and after eating a hot meal, learners won’t just drink water, they now have a wash
down of Maheu,” said Mahofa.
Bikita Minerals, known for lithium extraction in the district, says the Maheu drive reflects a core
belief: long-term progress starts with human capital. The company is now exploring ways to
scale the model further through partnerships in health, education, and infrastructure.
