Chusa Mining Ltd has been commended for investing TZS230 million in the construction of a new women’s and children’s ward at Mirerani Health Centre in Simanjiro District.
The project has been described as a practical example of how mining companies can channel corporate social responsibility (CSR) investments into services that directly benefit surrounding communities.
CCM Parents’ Wing national chairman Fadhili Rajab Maganya made the remarks after inspecting the project during a one-day visit to Simanjiro.
Mr Maganya, who is also a member of the CCM National Central Committee, said the decision to invest in healthcare was more meaningful to the community than spending CSR funds on activities with limited long-term benefits.
“Chusa Mining could have organised a sports event, but instead it has invested in an important area such as healthcare,” he said.
He said the project demonstrated that mining companies could contribute to improving access to essential public services in areas where they operate.
Mr Maganya also said the TZS230 million cost appeared to correspond with the quality of the construction, emphasising the importance of value for money in community projects.
“We have seen that the construction cost is reasonable and the value for money is reflected in the building,” he said.
The facility is expected to expand the health centre’s capacity to provide services to women and children once completed.
The health centre’s in-charge, Dr Namnyaki Lukumay, said the project includes a women’s ward, a children’s ward and offices for medical staff.
Dr Lukumay said Chusa Mining was financing the entire project, whose total cost is expected to reach TZS230 million upon completion.
The investment comes as mining companies continue to face calls to ensure their CSR programmes address pressing social and economic needs in communities surrounding mining operations.