On Thursday, 5 November 2026, Cllr Mike Mataruka, Chairperson of Ruwa Local Board, handed over a donation of IBR roofing sheets, windowpanes, putty, and ceiling boards at Vurombo Primary School on behalf of the Urban Councils Association of Zimbabwe (UCAZ). The materials were presented to the Minister of State for Masvingo Provincial Affairs and Devolution Honourable Ezra Chadzamira to rehabilitate seven of the eleven classroom blocks whose roofs the hailstorm extensively damaged on 5 October 2026. The school is in Hillside; the high-density suburb hardest hit by the storm. Cllr Mataruka represented UCAZ President and Mayor of Harare, His Worship Cllr Jacob Mafume, who was unable to attend the ceremony.

 

Minister Chadzamira flanked by Cllr Mike Mataruka (left) and Mayor of Masvingo His Worship Cllr Aleck Tabe.

Hailstones punctured the computer science laboratory’s asbestos roof, severely damaging more than 15 computers. Roofs on several houses were also damaged. The storm disrupted lessons, forcing pupils from different grades to share the available classroom space.

After the devasting hailstorm, the Minister of Local Government and Public Works appealed to UCAZ to mobilise support from its members. Seventeen members raised more than US$13 000 . More members have promised to chip in.

 

Cllr Mike Mataruka (left) handing over material donated by UCAZ to Minister Ezra Chadzamira (centre) and Headmaster Mr Clive Mutimhairi.

 

During the handover, Cllr Mataruka said UCAZ recognised the urgent need to repair the roofs after the hailstorm struck Masvingo, as the rainy season was beginning and delays would affect pupils. He added that UCAZ’s contributions would cover repairs to seven classroom blocks.

He thanked the Minister who in his individual capacity donated material to cover a classroom block. He also promised that more assistance was on the way as other members were processing their donations.
The Minister thanked UCAZ for its timely donation and urged his ministry to prepare a bill of quantities for repairs to damaged houses in the suburb so that well-wishers could assist affected families.
Attendees included mayors, council chairpersons, town clerks, and town secretaries representing 17 UCAZ members.

Members channelled donations through the city of Masvingo who procured the materials.