Community hostels are becoming prevalent, saving learners from walking long distances to and from school.

This is an apparent commitment shown by communities and other stakeholders towards the education of their children. There are 18 community hostels in the Zambezi Region. Community hostels are found in rural areas, including Kabbe South and North, Judea Lyaboloma, and Linyanti, where learners walk long distances to and from school. 

However, only one community hostel is found within the jurisdiction of Katima Mulilo. Although approved by the government, not all the community hostels are furnished and at the same level. More community hostels are being planned, and the Sauzuo Combined School will have one.

Support is needed, though, for these community hostels, and Balyerwa Conservancy has stepped up with the donation of building materials. Once completed, the Sauzuo community hostel will accommodate 40 learners, plus there is a need for a kitchen. Handing over the donation, the Chairperson of the Conservancy, Knox Harushando, says community hostels are an important component of the learners safety.

The school caters for learners who travel from villages including Nongozi, Lyanshulu, Mambali, and Mbambazi—areas where wild animals roam free. The school has also been experiencing water shortages for over three weeks now, which negatively impacts lessons.

The Sangwali Senior Secondary School Principal, Albert Simataa, requested the assistance of the well-to-do natives to plough back into their community.

The clearing of land and brick making for the construction of the community hostel will start next week, and more assistance is required.