Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo [email protected]
ALL is set for the Tsholotsho Road Rehabilitation Initiative (TRRI)’s official launch of the community-driven road rehabilitation programme tomorrow, Friday in Nyamandlovu.
The latest development marks the beginning of a transformative intervention to improve one of Matabeleland North’s most important transport corridors.
The launch, which will be presided over by the Minister of State for Matabeleland North Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Richard Moyo, is expected to draw Government officials, traditional leaders, local authorities, development partners, business representatives and hundreds of locals, including those based in the Diaspora.
The initiative seeks to mobilise resources and complement Government efforts to rehabilitate the Tsholotsho Road, a strategic route linking Bulawayo, Nyamandlovu and Tsholotsho District.
For years, sections of the road have deteriorated due to age, heavy traffic and weather-related damage, making travel slow and costly while affecting the movement of people, agricultural produce, goods and essential services.
Motorists, public transport operators and villagers have repeatedly raised concerns over potholes, damaged sections and the high cost of vehicle maintenance caused by the poor state of the road.
During the rainy season, some stretches become even more difficult to navigate, disrupting business, access to schools and health facilities, and limiting economic opportunities for communities along the corridor.
The road is regarded as the economic lifeline of Tsholotsho District, connecting farmers to markets, learners to educational institutions, patients to referral hospitals and businesses to suppliers. It also serves as a key route for tourism traffic heading to parts of Hwange District and other attractions in Matabeleland North.
Recognising the strategic importance of the road, the Government has over the years undertaken periodic maintenance works through the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development.
The TRRI is aimed at complementing these efforts by mobilising communities, the private sector and development partners to support rehabilitation works.
TRRI chairperson Mr Cephas Tshuma said the official launch represents a strong partnership between Government, traditional leadership and the community to improve the lives of the people of Tsholotsho.
Mr Tshuma said the initiative had received overwhelming support from Zimbabweans both at home and abroad, with many responding positively through financial contributions, advocacy and mobilisation efforts.
“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has supported this vision from its inception. To those who have contributed, encouraged us, prayed for us and helped spread the message, we say thank you. To those who are still preparing to contribute, we welcome you to become part of this historic journey,” he said.
Mr Tshuma also paid tribute to the Government, traditional leaders, local authorities, development partners and other stakeholders for embracing the community-driven initiative.
“The support we have received has given us confidence that together we can achieve more. The success of this initiative will be built on collaboration, unity and a shared commitment to improving livelihoods through better infrastructure,” he said.
Mr Tshuma said the event would provide an opportunity for the community to demonstrate its commitment to development and showcase the power of partnerships in addressing local challenges, in line with the Second Republic’s philosophy that “ilizwe lakhiwa ngabanikazi balo/Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo”.
“We invite everyone to come and witness history in the making. Let us fill Nyamandlovu on August 7 and show the nation what can be achieved when a community unites behind a common cause and works hand in hand with Government to build a better future,” he said.
The launch is expected to outline the initiative’s roadmap, funding strategy, and areas of collaboration as TRRI seeks to mobilise financial resources, equipment, technical expertise, and volunteer support to improve the condition of the Tsholotsho Road.
The anticipated upgraded road network will reduce travel times, improve road safety, lower transport costs, stimulate investment, enhance tourism and strengthen economic activity in Tsholotsho and surrounding communities, while improving access to education, healthcare and other essential public services.
