A SAND extraction venture has been launched in Umguza district’s ward 16, with plans to channel proceeds from the project towards vital infrastructural development in the community.
The project is the result of a partnership between businessman James Muvundusi and ward 16 councillor Obert Magwana.
Machinery, including caterpillars and trucks, have been moved to the site, marking the start of operations.
Magwana said the project would directly benefit the community by funding long-overdue projects.
“We have agreed that revenue from the sand operations will go towards road maintenance, the construction of schools and the building of dams in our area,” he said.
To ensure the site is secure and operates lawfully, a boom gate will be installed to monitor truck movement and restrict access to licensed collectors only.
A cabin will be set up at the site to serve as a security room and control point for operations.
“This is about sustainable development. We are making sure that only authorised sand collectors work here and that every load of sand contributes something meaningful to our community,” Magwana said.
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Muvundusi, who is funding and managing the project, reiterated his commitment to transparency and community co-operation.
“We are not here just to extract resources. We want to work with local leaders to make sure the people of Umguza see and feel the impact of this project,” he said.
Local residents have expressed optimism, noting that the project will bring meaningful development to the community.
The project is expected to create jobs and improve access to services through the infrastructure upgrade.
“We are happy to see something happening here. This project will bring meaningful change, better roads, more jobs and improved services for our children,” said Thandeka Moyo, a resident.
With proper regulation and buy-in of locals, the Umguza sand project can serve as a model for community-based development initiatives in other districts.
