Councillor Rufaro Matsika Champions Major Road Rehabilitation in Ward 18, Harare East: Government, City of Harare, and Private Sector Collaborate

Peter Tanyanyiwa

Online Reporter

HARARE’S Ward 18 is setting the pace in terms of road rehabilitation, which is being spearheaded by the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development, the City of Harare, and the Central Mechanical Equipment Department (CMED).

Ward 18, which is under Councillor Rufaro Matsika, encompasses suburbs such as Borrowdale, Borrowdale Brooke, Helensvale, Greystone Park, Mandara, Gletwin, Glenlorne, Philadelphia, Hogerty Hill, and Umwinsdale.

Key roads covered under the rehabilitation programme include Yalmouth Road, Salhouse Road, and Douglas Clark Road.

Councillor Matsika expressed her gratitude for the progress made so far in rehabilitating roads in her ward.

“This is a monumental step for our community. Residents have been waiting patiently for these roads to be restored, and I am thrilled to see meaningful work underway,” she said. “These improvements will enhance safety, mobility, and the overall quality of life for everyone in Ward 18.”

Councillor Matsika also acknowledged the contributions of residents, particularly the Borrowdale Residents and Ratepayers Association (BRRA), for their active role in assisting with road patching and maintenance.

“This is a community-driven revival. The BRRA’s efforts in working alongside council teams for patching and minor road repairs have been invaluable. It’s inspiring to see residents taking ownership of our shared infrastructure challenges,” she said.

“Modern infrastructure is the backbone of any thriving community. With these road improvements, we’re seeing renewed confidence in the property market and local investment.”

Councillor Matsika pledged to ensure that the current momentum is sustained.

“This is just the beginning. My commitment is to ensure that every suburb in Ward 18—from Mandara to Glenlorne, Borrowdale to Gletwin—benefits from this infrastructure renaissance,” she said.

“I urge residents to remain engaged, report issues, and work with the council as we build a better future together.

“The road rehabilitation drive in Ward 18 is more than just construction—it’s a testament to the power of collaboration between Government, city authorities, private sector players, and the community. Together, they are paving the way for safer, more reliable roads and a brighter future for Harare East.”