By Ross Moyo
In a disheartening turn of events, Haulin Quarry Mine, a Chinese-owned company operating in Pumula North, Bulawayo, has faced unexpected sabotage in its efforts to support the local community. Known for adhering to Zimbabwe’s strict mining regulations, including environmental impact assessments (EIA) and compliance with the Ministry of Mines, Haulin Quarry Mine has earned a reputation as a model investor contributing to local development.
Rodrick Moyo, the Sustainability Manager and Community Liaison for Haulin Quarry Mine, revealed that the company had purchased 400 bags of mealie meal from Daily Havest, a local milling company based in Bulawayo, to distribute Christmas hampers to vulnerable communities. The targeted beneficiaries included:
St. Peters Village: 25 people
Mazwi Village: 30 people
Robert Sinyoka: 49 people
Methodist Village: 37 people
Pumula North: 90 people (including elderly and disabled residents)
In total, 231 residents were set to benefit from this initiative, which aligns with Haulin Quarry Mine’s ongoing commitment to improving the lives of people in Pumula North.
However, Daily Havest failed to deliver the promised mealie meal within the agreed timeframe, leading to delays and frustration. “We bought mealie meal from Daily Havest three days ago, and they were supposed to produce over 400 bags within 16 hours. However, the company failed to deliver, offering excuse after excuse,” said Moyo.
The consequences of this failure were devastating. Elderly residents, many with disabilities, waited in vain for their Christmas hampers, only to be turned away repeatedly due to Daily Havest’s unfulfilled promises. The remaining 200 bags were never delivered, and when Haulin Quarry representatives attempted to follow up at Daily Havest’s premises in Kelvin North on December 21st, 2024, they were met with hostility.
Rodrick Ncube, another representative from Haulin Quarry Mine, recounted the shocking encounter: “We were assaulted by the owner of Daily Havest when we inquired about the undelivered bags. He accused us of breaking his gate. It was humiliating and unacceptable.” A police report has since been filed at Westcom Police Station, citing assault and fraud.
Community leaders have expressed their disappointment over Daily Havest’s actions and praised Haulin Quarry Mine for its continued commitment to uplifting local communities.
Trust Mkhwanazi, Chairperson: “Haulin Quarry Mine has been a blessing to our community, drilling boreholes and supporting the vulnerable. It’s disheartening to see their goodwill disrupted by dishonesty.”
Thokozani Mabaleka, Secretary: “Such incidents damage investor confidence and hurt local development. This shouldn’t have happened.”
Thandiwe Mpofu, Committee Member Representing Vendors: “We stand with Haulin Quarry Mine. They have consistently supported us, and this setback must be addressed by authorities.”
Pastor Polite Nyathi, Committee Member Representing Churches: “The elderly and vulnerable members of our community have been let down. We hope justice prevails.”
This incident is not isolated. Across Africa, similar cases of local businesses exploiting foreign investors have been documented, often leading to strained relationships and decreased investor confidence. Countries like Zambia and Tanzania have faced similar challenges where well-intentioned foreign investors were sabotaged by unscrupulous local entities.
Thabani Dube, a local analyst, emphasized the broader implications: “When incidents like this occur, they tarnish Zimbabwe’s image as an investment destination. Haulin Quarry Mine has done so much for Pumula North, and it’s unacceptable for such sabotage to occur.”
The ball is now in the authorities’ court. The assault and fraud allegations against Daily Havest require thorough investigation and swift action. The community and Haulin Quarry Mine await justice, not just for the mealie meal debacle but to send a strong message against exploiting investors who are committed to sustainable development in Zimbabwe.
As Haulin Quarry Mine continues its commendable work in Pumula North, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for accountability and transparency among local businesses working with foreign investors.
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