Innovation that inspires
Progress.

Think Big. Act Bigger.

Cultural and Heritage Preservation

The Projects and Innovation Division leads initiatives that drive local economic development and infrastructure improvement in Mt. Darwin through innovation. One of its aims is to preserve and promote the district’s cultural and historical heritage, particularly its role in Zimbabwe’s independence. By working with local and international partners, the division develops heritage centers, community cultural projects, and oral history archives to connect the community with its roots and support cultural tourism.

Impact on the Community

  • Cultural Empowerment, Education & Awareness

  • These projects are significantly enhancing local pride, encouraging communities to engage with their history and ensure preservation of cultural heritage. Through accessible historical archives and educatioal programs,the initiative is strengthening the community cohesion and national identity.

  • Economic Opportunites

  • The development of cultural projects such as museums and heritage sites provides local residents with new opportunities for employment, entrepreneurship, and tourism-related income.



Context

Mt. Darwin’s historical significance, especially in Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle, remains underappreciated and undocumented. The need to preserve these memories is critical to both honoring the sacrifices of past generations and building a stronger community. The region also faces challenges in maintaining cultural identity as it modernizes. Therefore, the work of preserving this heritage plays a key role in safeguarding both tangible and intangible cultural assets for future generations.

    Opportunites for Collaboration

  1. Tourism Development: Investment in the creation of heritage tourism infrastructure, including museums, cultural centers, and eco-tourism sites, which will generate income for local communities and raise global awareness of Mt. Darwin’s unique history.
  2. Partnerships for Archiving: There is an opportunity to collaborate on oral history projects and digital archives to preserve and share the stories of Mt. Darwin’s people, creating an invaluable resource for researchers, educators, and cultural enthusiasts.
  3. Cultural Events and Festivals:By supporting cultural festivals, educational programs, and artistic performances, donors can help amplify local traditions, promote community engagement, and boost tourism revenue.
  4. Employment and Capacity Building: Investing in training programs for local artisans, guides, and educators will help create jobs and build the capacity of the community to independently manage and sustain cultural preservation initiatives.
  5. Sponsorship and Funding: Support the building of new facilities, exhibitions, and heritage projects, directly contributing to the preservation of local history while fostering economic growth.

Impact

  1. Cultural Engagement: Over 300 individuals from Mt. Darwin have participated in oral history interviews, contributing to a growing archive of local stories that celebrate the district’s role in Zimbabwe’s independence.
  2. Job Creation: Over 50 direct jobs for local residents, ranging from tour guides to artisans and hospitality workers, with plans for further expansion.

Training Today for Greener Mines
Tomorrow

Start Donating now

Safe and Clean Working Environments for Vendors

The Projects and Innovation Division aims to improve the livelihoods of vendors in Mt. Darwin by creating safe, clean, and organized trading environments. Recognizing vendors' importance to the local economy, the division will address challenges like poor infrastructure, sanitation, and safety through strategic initiatives led by the CDO, ensuring vendors have access to essential amenities that support business growth and public health.

Key Interventions

  • Market Infrastructure Development

  • The establishment of modern, clean, and well-organized markets to provide safe spaces for vendors to conduct their business while ensuring orderly trading and easy access for customers.

  • Safety, Sanitation & Hygiene

  • Implementing improved sanitation systems including waste management, water supply, and regular cleaning to maintain a hygienic environment for both vendors and customers. Additionally, the installation of adequate lighting and security measures that enhance safety and comfort in the marketplace.



    Context

  1. Lack of Infrastructure: Many vendors operate in open spaces without access to basic amenities such as clean water, sanitation facilities, and electricity. This lack of infrastructure not only affects their productivity but also poses health risks to both vendors and customers.
  2. Legal and Regulatory Issues: Vendors often face difficulties in obtaining permits and licenses to operate legally. This uncertainty can lead to frequent harassment by law enforcement and the confiscation of goods, disrupting their businesses.
  3. Little financial inclusion: The informal nature of their businesses means vendors have limited access to financial services, such as credit and insurance, making it challenging to invest in their enterprises or recover from losses.
  4. Health and Safety Concerns: Operating in unsanitary conditions increases the risk of health issues, including the spread of waterborne diseases. Additionally, the lack of proper waste disposal systems contributes to environmental degradation.

    Opportunites for Collaboration

  1. Infrastructure Investment: : Further opportunities exist to expand and upgrade market facilities to accommodate more vendors and meet the growing demand for trading spaces.
  2. Waste Management: There is potential for private-public partnerships focused on waste management systems, ensuring sustainable practices that can be replicated in other districts.
  3. Business Support and Capacity Building:Supporting training programs for vendors in business management, hygiene standards, and financial literacy would increase their ability to thrive and create more income-generating opportunities.
  4. Technology and E-Commerce: There is room to introduce e-commerce platforms or mobile payment solutions that can help vendors expand their market reach beyond the physical market space.

Impact

  1. 1400 vendors with a secure and reliable platform to grow their businesses
  2. Clean and Organized Places allowing vendors to operate in a more hygienic and appealing environment, attracting more customers and boosting sales.