Zim News Blog -NEWS NETWORK

Geo Pomona Waste Management has successfully obtained FIFA certification for its soccer pitch, marking a remarkable transformation from a dumpsite to a world-class sports facility.

Speaking during the certification ceremony Thursday, Sports deputy minister Emily Jesaya praised the initiative, emphasizing the importance of sustainable development and repurposing neglected spaces for community benefit.

“The certification of Geo Pomona Waste Management soccer pitch by FIFA is a testament to the power of innovation and dedication in transforming environmental challenges into opportunities for community development and recreation,” she said.

Geo Pomona CEO, Delish Nguwaya, expressed gratitude for the recognition and highlighted the company’s commitment to sustainable development .

“Our vision extends beyond waste management; we strive to contribute positively to the communities we serve. The FIFA certification is a testament to our dedication to creating spaces that enhance the quality of life for everyone,” he said.

The site, once known for spewing a heavy stench from rotten waste,has undergone a radical transformation under Geo Pomona’s waste-to-energy project.

The company invested in state-of-the-art waste management technologies and partnered with environmental experts to repurpose the site. The result is not only a pristine sports facility but also a symbol of sound environmental stewardship.

FIFA representative Cemil Nadir Sahin who tested and certified the pitch commended Geo Pomona for its commitment to sustainable development.

“FIFA is delighted to recognize Geo Pomona Waste Management’s efforts in repurposing a former dumpsite into a FIFA-certified soccer pitch. This achievement not only aligns with our commitment to promoting the sport globally but also emphasizes the importance of environmental responsibility,” he said.

Local residents and sports enthusiasts have welcomed the transformation, expressing their excitement about having a FIFA-certified soccer pitch in their community.

Jane Makarichi, a resident said, “This was once a place we avoided due to the smell, and now it has become a source of pride for our community. The certification by FIFA is like a dream come true for us.”

“It’s incredible to see how our community has been revitalized. The Geo Pomona initiative has not only provided us with a top-notch sports facility but has also improved the overall environment and quality of life for everyone here. We can’t thank them enough.”

The facility is expected to become a hub for sports activities, tournaments, and community events, fostering a sense of unity and pride among residents.

A Guruve-based Chinese mining company has been fined USD$700 by a Bindura magistrate for using Starlink equipment in violation of provisions of the  Postal and Telecommunications Act.

Starlink is a satellite internet constellation operated by American aerospace company SpaceX. It has not yet been licensed to operate in Zimbabwe.

According to the National Prosecuting Authority, SAN He mining company’s unlawful use of Starlink equipment came to light on December 5, 2023 when the police received a report from the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority.

The police proceeded to the mine where they recovered the Star-Link router and antenna.

MASHONALAND West Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Marian Chombo has asked five contractors upgrading the Harare-Chirundu Highway to employ locals in the spirit of devolution and empowering previously marginalised communities.

“Employ people from communities that you will be working in along the Harare-Chirundu Highway. Communities situated along the highway should benefit and this will minimise conflicts within communities” said Chombo.

She said contractors would use a list of locals seeking jobs that would be submitted to her office by traditional leaders in the areas contractors will be working.

“Chiefs, headmen and sabhukus (village heads) will submit lists of people to my office and I will forward them to the contractors,” said Chombo, imploring contractors to employ mainly youths and women.

Government awarded tenders to Bitumen World, Fossil, Exodus, Masimba and Tensor to rehabilitate the Harare-Chirundu Highway.

In 2021, President Emmerson Mnangagwa declared the country’s road network a state of national disaster and announced a ZW$400 million war chest to rehabilitate them.

The government later embarked on an Emergency Road Rehabilitation Programme  which was supposed to run for three years ending in February this year.

However, the country’s roads remain in a sorry state littered with potholes amid reports of poor workmanship and corruptionon the part of contracted companies, leading to government threatening some contractors over poor quality of work.

However, the government has not taken any action.