Online Reporter
Conrad Mupesa
Mashonaland West Bureau
Chegutu Municipality’s drive towards city status by 2030 is in full swing, accelerated by infrastructural development and a clear roadmap aligned with Vision 2030.
Once largely regarded as a transit town along the Harare–Bulawayo Highway, Chegutu is steadily transforming into a modern urban centre, with strategic projects reshaping its physical landscape, improving service delivery and boosting economic prospects.
An official from the Municipality of Chegutu’s business development and communications desk, Mr Lovemore Mutsvangwa, recently said the transformation was deliberate and anchored on tangible results aligned with national development goals.
“As the nation reflects on its independence milestones, Chegutu is also responding through concrete development that promotes economic growth, better service delivery, and improved livelihoods for our residents,” he said.
Mr Mutsvangwa noted that infrastructure development remains central to the municipality’s modernisation drive, with roads, water and social amenities taking priority.
A notable project is the recently completed 1,5km Pickstone Road, which now seamlessly connects farming and mining areas with the town centre.
The road is already stimulating economic activity by improving mobility and facilitating the movement of goods and services.
Mr Mutsvangwa said this project has improved accessibility and ease of doing business.
“It exemplifies how infrastructure can unlock local economic potential and support inclusive growth,” he added.
In the water and sanitation sector, the municipality reported significant progress through the ongoing Phase 4 Water and Sewer Project, a US$3,5 million investment aimed at providing long-term relief to residents.
More than 7km of pipeline have already been installed, marking a major step towards addressing persistent water supply challenges.
For years, Chegutu has been pumping eight megalitres of water daily instead of the required 16, due to ageing and dilapidated pipes.
Chegutu mayor, Councillor Rydes Machekera, underscored the importance of such projects for urban development, saying reliable infrastructure is essential for sustainable growth.
“Water and road infrastructure are not just services; they are critical pillars of development. Their availability directly impacts public health, industrial productivity, and overall quality of life,” he said.
Clr Machekera added that the municipality is adopting a long-term approach to ensuring infrastructure development keeps pace with population growth and urban expansion.
Progress is also being recorded in the education sector, with construction of the Phase 4 Primary School nearing completion.
Clr Machekera said the new school will help decongest existing institutions and provide a modern learning environment that meets contemporary standards.
“Education infrastructure remains central to our broader development vision,” he said.
Chegutu has also lined up several flagship projects aimed at redefining its urban landscape and strengthening the economic base.
These include the Riffle Range redevelopment project, which seeks to transform underused land into a vibrant mixed-use zone comprising residential and commercial spaces.
The Town Extension initiative will further expand residential areas, supported by essential social amenities such as clinics, schools and recreational facilities.
In addition, the municipality is advancing a Tourism Corridor concept designed to leverage Chegutu’s liberation heritage and agro-based potential to attract investment and visitors.
Mr Mutsvangwa expressed confidence that the ongoing and planned developments firmly position Chegutu on course to attain city status by 2030.
“By 2030, we envision a fully upgraded urban centre characterised by expanded residential zones, thriving commercial activity, and a growing tourism sector.
“Our focus is on building a competitive and attractive urban space,” he said.
He emphasised the municipality’s commitment to inclusive development.
“Our goal is to deliver efficient services and build a functional, vibrant, and prosperous urban centre that leaves no one behind,” Mr Mutsvangwa added.
The council is spearheading infrastructure development using internally generated revenue, as well as funds allocated by the Government through the Devolution Fund and the Zimbabwe National Roads Authority under the ERRP2 model.
