Demonstrating its strong commitment to social impact, NetOne Cellular held the Run For Hope marathon in Beitbridge on Saturday, 21 June 2025, while also officially commissioning the upgraded Mtetengwe Secondary School.
The occasion was honoured by the presence of Zimbabwe’s Vice President, Retired Colonel K.C.D. Mohadi, who praised NetOne for its dedicated role in advancing national development.
Blending athleticism with advocacy, the half-marathon attracted over 500 participants, including students and residents, all rallying under the theme of youth empowerment and drug abuse prevention. Medals and prizes were awarded to top finishers, thanks to NetOne’s sponsorship, while health professionals and youth advocates engaged the crowd with inspirational talks.
“This initiative is more than just a race—it’s a movement towards healthier, drug-free communities,” said NetOne Group CEO, Engineer Raphael Mushanawani. “Our contribution here goes beyond symbolism. We have invested in real infrastructure: renovated classrooms, a solar-powered borehole, a thriving nutritional garden, and a modern ICT lab to connect rural learners to the digital world.”
The Vice President officially unveiled:
- A renovated classroom block with eight fully equipped learning spaces
- A 40-computer lab powered by solar energy
- A sustainable garden supporting the school feeding scheme
- A solar-driven borehole supplying safe drinking water
In his remarks, VP Mohadi highlighted education as a cornerstone of national progress. “These renovations are a clear testament to what can be achieved when the private sector embraces its responsibility to society,” he said. “NetOne’s efforts will leave a lasting legacy in this community.”
Also present was Defence Minister and ZANU-PF National Chairperson, Cde Oppah Muchinguri, who called for a united front in combating drug abuse. “This crisis is not just national; it’s in our homes and neighbourhoods. Families, churches, and traditional leaders all have a role to play,” she urged.
Mr. Ncube, headmaster of Mtetengwe Primary School, expressed gratitude for the digital transformation. “Access to technology will open new horizons for our learners,” he said. “With these new resources, enrolment is expected to rise by 30%. Our pupils can now compete on equal footing with urban schools.”
NetOne’s dual initiative marked a significant step in addressing both social and educational challenges in underserved communities, leaving an indelible mark on Mtetengwe’s future.
