COAST REGION: SOME private companies have stepped up their corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives to help communities access essential services, complementing government efforts to improve education, water supply and other basic services.

In Misugusugu Ward, Fortune Paper, a paper manufacturer based on Saeni Street, is supporting education and water projects as part of its CSR initiatives in communities surrounding its operations.

Factory Manager, Weiwei Zhou said the company provided maize flour, a water pump and stationery worth 8m/- to Zogowale Primary School.

The company is also extending water pipes about three kilometres from its premises to residential areas, a project expected to benefit more than 20 households.

“We are also extending water pipes to residential areas. More than 20 households are expected to access the water for bathing, washing and agricultural activities without paying for the supply,” Mr Zhou said in Kibaha recently.

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The Company’s Business Manager, Colin Yang said cooperation with the government and surrounding communities had been important to the company’s operations.

Kibaha District Commissioner, Mr Saimon John said the food donation supported government efforts to improve school nutrition, while urging local leaders to engage investors in community development.

The projects show how CSR can complement public investment by directing private resources toward priority service gaps, particularly around business operations.