-Investments in Education, Health, Water, and Infrastructure Transform Local Villages_
Residents in eight villages surrounding the Dangote Cement Factory in Mtwara—namely Likonde, Hiyari, Mkwajuni, Mwembetoga, Kyoba, Msijute, Mbuo, and Mayanga—are witnessing significant improvements in their quality of life, thanks to the company’s continued investment in community development projects.
In Kyoba Village, a newly constructed primary school and staff housing are transforming education outcomes. According to Mr. Muksin Mnakane, Head Teacher of Kyoba Primary School, the support from Dangote has reduced long walking distances for students, thereby curbing absenteeism and improving academic performance.
“Previously, students walked over two kilometers to attend schools in neighboring villages. This contributed to low attendance and poor results. Today, with the new school closer to home, students are performing better and staying in class,” Mr. Mnakane said.
He added that teacher accommodations built near the school have also enhanced efficiency and teaching morale, while road improvements around the village have eased mobility, especially during the rainy season.
In other parts of the region, the company’s impact is equally evident. Ms. Tatu Salawanda, Chairperson of the Community Project Oversight Committee, commended Dangote Cement for building new schools, health workers’ housing in Likonde and Mbuo, and a critical access road linking Msijute Village to Mayanga Dispensary.
“Residents can now access health services quickly, which was a serious challenge in the past. The construction of boreholes in Majengo Village has also brought clean and safe water much closer to homes,” Ms. Salawanda noted.
Speaking on behalf of the company, Mr. Abeid Muda, Public Relations Manager at Dangote Cement, affirmed that the factory remains committed to long-term social impact through sustainable community investment.
“Our CSR strategy focuses on improving livelihoods for the people living near our operations. We believe that development is only meaningful when it includes the well-being of the surrounding community. The schools, roads, staff houses, and water projects are all part of our broader goal to support inclusive growth,” Mr. Muda explained.
As development partners, Dangote Cement’s efforts in Mtwara are being lauded as a model for private sector engagement in community empowerment and infrastructure development.
