Eight villages surrounding the Dangote Cement Factory in Mtwara Likonde, Hiyari, Mkwajuni, Mwembetoga, Kyoba, Msijute, Mbuo, and Mayanga are experiencing notable improvements in living standards, thanks to the factory’s ongoing investment in community development.
Through a robust Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program, Dangote Cement has launched numerous projects aimed at enhancing access to quality education, healthcare, clean water, and reliable infrastructure.
In Kyoba Village, a newly built primary school and staff housing have significantly boosted education outcomes. Mr. Muksin Mnakane, Head Teacher at Kyoba Primary School, said the new facilities have reduced long walking distances for pupils, improving both attendance and academic performance.
“Previously, students had to walk over two kilometers to attend schools in neighboring areas. This often led to low turnout and poor performance. Now, with a school nearby, students are staying in class and performing better,” Mr. Mnakane explained.
He also noted that newly constructed staff quarters have improved teacher retention and morale, while upgraded roads have enhanced mobility, particularly during the rainy season.
The impact extends beyond Kyoba. In Likonde and Mbuo, Dangote has built housing for health workers, and a vital access road now connects Msijute Village to Mayanga Dispensary greatly improving emergency response and access to medical services.
Ms. Tatu Salawanda, Chairperson of the Community Project Oversight Committee, praised the company’s commitment, noting the completion of boreholes in Majengo Village as another milestone.
“Access to clean, safe water was a major challenge. Thanks to the new boreholes, water is now readily available and much closer to homes,” she said.
Speaking on behalf of Dangote Cement, Mr. Abeid Muda, the company’s Public Relations Manager, reaffirmed the factory’s long-term dedication to sustainable, inclusive development.
“Our CSR strategy is rooted in improving livelihoods in communities surrounding our operations. We believe true development must include the people who live alongside us. Schools, roads, water, and health projects are all part of our broader mission to promote shared growth,” Mr. Muda stated.
Dangote Cement’s initiatives in Mtwara are increasingly being recognized as a model for effective private sector participation in community development offering a blueprint for how businesses can drive meaningful, lasting change.
