The Sunday News
Michael Magoronga, Midlands Correspondent
AUTHORITIES in Kwekwe have been forced to look for alternative quarantine centres after foreign students at Kwekwe Polytechnic petitioned their embassies over the use of the institution.
The students, from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Equatorial Guinea failed to travel to their countries following the outbreak of the coronavirus across the world that resulted in travel restrictions.
Kwekwe Poly had been identified as an isolation centre for the district for locals coming from outside the country. The move did not go down well with the students who felt their lives were in danger and approached their embassies.
Although Kwekwe Poly was ideal given its proximity and carrying capacity, the local taskforce was forced to choose Rio Tinto Zhombe High School, Kwekwe High and Mlezu Agriculture College as quarantine centres for the district.
Kwekwe District Covid-19 Taskforce co-chair, Mr Vitalis Kwashira confirmed the development during a taskforce meeting last week that they have decided not to use the Kwekwe Poly as a quarantine centre.
“We decided not to use Kwekwe Poly as a quarantine centre following complaints and concerns raised by the foreign students who are currently residing at the college hostels. We then received communication from the Government and we acted swiftly. They have since approached their respective embassies and we have made due moves to ensure that the students remain safe,” said Mr Kwashira.
Speaking during the same meeting Kwekwe Poly vice-principal, Mr Chamu Gora said besides the students, there were also families who were staying at the institution.
“We have 21 students from DRC and Equatorial Guinea and families of the matrons and wardens. So, the students raised a concern through their embassies that they might become potential victims if they continue being mixed with returning travellers. We took note of their concern and the taskforce has since addressed the matter,” said Mr Gora.
According to the taskforce, more than 100 travellers are expected to return to Kwekwe from South Africa and Botswana in the next few weeks.
