FOR many Zimbabweans, the Great Dyke is a familiar landmark along the Harare to Bulawayo road, or a name associated with platinum, chrome and the mines scattered across the Midlands. A new book seeks to tell the wider story of the 550km geological formation, from its mineral wealth to the communities whose lives it shapes.
The Great Dyke Book: Beyond the Rock will be launched next Thursday, November 5, at King Solomon’s Hotel in Kwekwe. The event coincides with the Nedbank Tour de Great Dyke, which brings cyclists, sponsors and mining communities together in the Midlands city.
Compiled by Minex chairman Munyaradzi Hwengwere, the book explores the Great Dyke’s geology, history, economic significance, environment, tourism potential and investment opportunities. It is billed as the first publication of its kind dedicated to examining the formation through these different perspectives.
Mines and Mining Development Minister Polite Kambamura has been invited as guest of honour, while Chamber of Mines of Zimbabwe president Fungai Makoni will deliver the main address. Government officials, mining executives, investors and academics are also expected to attend.
The idea for the book grew from conversations and stories shared by the Manika family, who grew up along the Great Dyke.
Speaking at the launch of the cycling tour in Harare last week, Hwengwere credited the family with helping inspire the project.
“But the Manikas have influenced us a lot because they grew up within the Great Dyke. And they used to tell us a lot of stories around the Great Dyke,” he said.
Hwengwere, a broadcaster who founded Zvishavane based YaFM, said the publication aims to connect the formation’s mineral riches with its wider significance to Zimbabwe.
“The Great Dyke is much more than a mineral-rich geological formation. It is an important part of Zimbabwe’s natural heritage and a source of livelihoods, industrial development, investment and opportunities for future generations,” he said.
He also wants the book to reach classrooms and lecture halls, urging schools, colleges and universities to stock it as a reference for students studying geology, mining and the economy.
“Our young people need access to knowledge about their country’s geology, mineral wealth, industrial development and environmental responsibilities,” he said.
The publication is also intended to encourage discussion about how mining wealth can benefit communities, local businesses and future generations, alongside the companies extracting the minerals.
Its launch carries a charitable purpose linked to the cycling tour. Proceeds from book sales will go to the Gifted Children Foundation, which pays school fees for talented children from struggling families. The foundation has supported 157 learners through primary, secondary and tertiary education.
Copies will sell for US$20, with companies and institutions encouraged to purchase them in bulk.
The Nedbank Tour de Great Dyke, now in its ninth edition, runs from Selous to Zvishavane under the theme “Ride with Purpose – Every Child Matters”.
