Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo, Senior Reporter
THE Government has said the rehabilitation of the long awaited Bulawayo–Tsholotsho Road remains a priority project and work is set to commence once all the required processes have been completed.
Giving an update on the road to provide clarity to motorists, business people and communities along the corridor who have been complaining about the state of the road which is one of Matabeleland North’s key roads, the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development said the project is still at tender stage and work is yet to begin.
The Bulawayo–Tsholotsho Road serves as a critical transport link connecting Zimbabwe’s second-largest city with Tsholotsho District and surrounding communities.
The road is used daily by passenger transport operators, private motorists, haulage trucks, farmers and traders moving goods and services between rural and urban areas.
Responding to enquiries by Zimpapers, Ministry spokesperson Ms Judith Nhau said while the project remains a priority, the procurement process is still at tender stage.
“The Bulawayo–Tsholotsho Road Rehabilitation Project is currently at the tender stage and as such no contractors have been appointed,” said Ms Nhau.
She said the procurement process is being undertaken in accordance with the applicable laws and procedures governing public procurement to ensure transparency, accountability and value for money.
Ms Nhau said details regarding the successful bidder or bidders, including the number of contractors that will be engaged on the project, would only be released after the conclusion of the procurement process and the securing of all necessary approvals.
“Details regarding the successful bidder(s) and the number of contractors to be engaged will be communicated once the procurement process has been concluded and all requisite approvals have been obtained,” said Ms Nhau.
The rehabilitation of the Bulawayo–Tsholotsho Road has long been viewed as a critical infrastructure intervention due to the road’s strategic importance in facilitating economic activity and improving access to essential services.
Over the years, motorists and residents have repeatedly raised concerns over the condition of the road, citing potholes, surface deterioration and other defects that have increased vehicle maintenance costs and affected travel times.
The road is particularly important for the movement of agricultural produce from Tsholotsho and neighbouring areas to major markets in Bulawayo and beyond. Improved road infrastructure is also expected to benefit the tourism sector, given the district’s proximity to several tourism destinations and wildlife areas.
Experts say investment in road infrastructure plays a vital role in stimulating economic growth.
“The ministry remains committed to the rehabilitation of the Bulawayo–Tsholotsho Road, which is a key infrastructure project aimed at improving connectivity, enhancing road safety and supporting socio-economic development in the region,” said Ms Nhau.
The road rehabilitation programme is expected to bring significant benefits once implemented, including improved driving conditions, reduced travel times, enhanced safety for road users and increased opportunities for investment and commerce along the corridor.
For communities along the route, improved road infrastructure is also expected to ease access to schools, health institutions and other essential services while facilitating the movement of people and goods.
The Government has in recent years intensified efforts to modernise and rehabilitate the country’s road network under various infrastructure development programmes, recognising the critical role that transport infrastructure plays in national development.
The Bulawayo–Tsholotsho Road project forms part of broader efforts to upgrade strategic roads across the country in order to improve mobility, support economic growth and enhance the quality of life for citizens.
While no timelines have yet been announced regarding the appointment of contractors or the commencement of works, the ministry said stakeholders and members of the public would be kept informed as the project progresses through the remaining procurement stages.
Further updates on the project are expected once the tender evaluation process has been completed and all statutory requirements have been fulfilled, paving the way for the rehabilitation works to start.
