Zimbabwean UFC Fighter Themba Gorimbo Stops Construction of Solar Library for Local Kids
In a heartfelt announcement, Themba Gorimbo, a rising star in the UFC, has shared the unfortunate decision to halt his ambitious solar-powered library project in Muvuti, Bikita.
Originally planned as a community resource for children to study at night, the project has encountered unforeseen challenges that have forced Gorimbo to dismantle the nearly completed structure.
A Vision for Education
In February 2024, Gorimbo expressed his commitment to enhancing educational opportunities in his hometown. He envisioned building a free, accessible solar-powered library that would allow local children to study after dark.
“I would also like to raise funds to build a freely accessible solar-powered library in Muvuti, Bikita so that the villages can have the opportunity to study at night,” Gorimbo stated.
Reflecting on his own struggles to study after school hours, he shared,
“I passed high school, but I could have done much better. School finished at four, so when I came home, it was dark, and I battled to study, while other kids in other areas could because they had power.”
Driven by a desire to provide similar opportunities for the next generation, Gorimbo stated,
“I am going to build this library so that kids can go there and study and chase their dreams.”
Heartbreaking Decision to Dismantle
However, in a recent post on his Facebook account, Themba Gorimbo revealed his decision to stop the project and break down the building.
“The saddest thing I’ve had to publicly say is I was trying to build a solar-powered library in my village, and the building was already almost finished,” he wrote.
Despite his initial hopes to complete the library during his current trip, he explained that unforeseen circumstances led him to make the difficult decision to stop the project and dismantle the building.
“My intention was to finish this project on this trip but due to unforeseen circumstances i have decided to stop the project and break down the building.”
Themba Gorimbo expressed his deep disappointment over the decision, adding that it was a difficult but necessary choice to find peace amidst ongoing challenges.
“Many kids were going to benefit from this project. I feel sad about this decision, but unfortunately, it is something that can give me peace because I cannot continue with dealing with what I deal with behind the scenes.”
A Desire for Independence
In his message, Gorimbo emphasized his desire to use his resources as he sees fit, free from external expectations.
“My wish in life is always to do what I want with my money without having people telling me why I must do this for this and for that. I try not to belong to anyone because it creates entitlement that I have to fulfill certain obligations that aren’t my responsibility. I just like to do my part where my heart desires,” he explained.
Reflecting on the financial burden of the project, he noted,
“I didn’t want to put this publicly, but I have to because I publicly posted about the project and many of you might be wondering how far it is. The answer is it was 3/4 done and I had spent a ton to get there from my pocket actually because I couldn’t auction my May fight kit gear.”
Looking Ahead
Despite the setback, Gorimbo remains committed to making a positive impact. He concluded his post by stating,