Zimbabwean UFC fighter Themba Gorimbo has halted plans for a solar-powered library in his village, citing interference from local politicians.
The fighter, recently visiting Zimbabwe, shared his decision on social media, expressing frustration with the interference surrounding the project.
Gorimbo had posted updates on the library’s progress, which was nearly complete, intending to finish it during his visit.
However, he announced his intent to abandon the project, even considering demolishing the partially finished structure.
The library, designed to benefit local children, now hangs in uncertainty, leaving the community without the educational resource.
“The saddest thing I’ve 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.
Gorimbo, known for his dedication to giving back, described the project’s abandonment as a heartbreaking but necessary decision.
Although he refrained from identifying those obstructing his efforts, speculation points to local political interference, reflecting broader frustrations among Zimbabweans.
He expressed a desire for autonomy, stating, “My wish in life is always to do what I want with my money without people telling me why.”
This sentiment resonated in his social media post, hinting at the strain caused by behind-the-scenes challenges that prompted his withdrawal.
Gorimbo lamented the situation, acknowledging the positive impact the library would have had on young lives in his village.
The post revealed his ongoing struggle with entitlement issues from individuals expecting obligations that go beyond his intended contributions.
Having already invested significantly in the project, Gorimbo’s commitment appeared unwavering until interference altered his course.
“Answer is it was 3/4 done and had spent a ton to get there from my pocket,” he wrote, underscoring the personal cost invested.
Zimbabwean politician Temba Mliswa also commented on Gorimbo’s plight, labeling it a regrettable but all-too-common occurrence in the country.
Mliswa expressed empathy, drawing from his own experiences facing similar obstacles in community projects aimed at Shurugwi’s development.
“This is very unfortunate. I strongly suspect these meddling individuals are politicians,” Mliswa shared on X, echoing the frustrations voiced by Gorimbo.
For Gorimbo, the setback has prompted him to redirect his philanthropic efforts, shifting his focus toward new goals aimed at impacting strangers’ lives.
His words reflect a resilient commitment to charity, albeit one now directed away from local endeavors in favor of broader, less restricted avenues.