Online Reporter
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]
GOVERNMENT is working to ensure the timely release of funds to contractors upgrading the Gwanda–Maphisa and Bulawayo–Kezi–Maphisa roads, a move aimed at maintaining uninterrupted progress until the projects are fully completed.
Construction of the two roads is continuing at a steady pace following this year’s Independence Day celebrations, in line with Government’s target of completing all legacy projects initiated in Matabeleland South by November.
The rehabilitation and upgrading of the roads form part of legacy projects rolled out in the province after it hosted the 2026 Independence Day commemorations.
In an interview, the Minister of State for Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Albert Nguluvhe, said Government had engaged all contractors to remain on site and sustain work until the projects are completed.
“We made a point that works on the two roads don’t stop post-Independence to ensure that we meet our September target. All contractors were advised to remain on the ground and continue with their construction works at a steady pace,” he said.
“We understand that timeous release of funds to pay the contractors and other workers is crucial in the timeous completion of these projects. I’m constantly monitoring the progress of the roads and engaging the treasury to ensure that contractors are paid. Government remains committed to ensuring the timeous completion of the two roads.
Development of infrastructure such as roads is one of the key pillars of the National Development Strategy 2, which
will lead to attainment of Vision 2030,” said Minister Nguluvhe.
Minister Nguluvhe said Government remained committed to ensuring the completion of all legacy projects launched in Matabeleland South. As part of post-Independence follow-up activities, he said his office was closely monitoring implementation progress, with responsible departments being tasked to deliver on set targets.
Matabeleland South Provincial Roads Engineer, Mangisi Nkomo, said nine contractors are working on the Bulawayo–Kezi–Maphisa Road, while four contractors are engaged on the Gwanda–Maphisa Road. He said most contractors are undertaking earthworks, with surfacing works expected to commence shortly.
“We have two sections where we are doing asphalt overlaying along the Bulawayo-Kezi Road, the first one being about 26,1km coming from Bulawayo and another 16,4km section, which starts from Kezi heading towards Maphisa.
“We also have about 63 kilometres where we are doing construction up to surfacing. On the asphalt overlay resealing of the first section of 26,1km, the contractor has covered about 12,7km. Outstanding under asphalt resealing is 13,4km.
“They will also do road marking and road signage. On the 16,4km, over 12,3km has been done. The contractor is on site with works in progress and should be completed by next week and they will also move to road markings and signage.”
Eng Nkomo said contractors are also advancing surfacing works on the 63-kilometre stretch of the Bulawayo–Kezi–Maphisa Road, with each contractor responsible for approximately nine kilometres. He said work on the various sections is at different stages, with authorities targeting at least three kilometres of surfaced road per contractor in the shortest possible time.
The rehabilitation of the Gwanda–Maphisa Highway and the Bulawayo–Kezi–Maphisa Road is part of several major road projects being undertaken under the Second Republic’s broader infrastructure development programme.
The two projects were initiated following Cabinet’s strategic decision to host the 2026 Independence Day celebrations at Maphisa Open Grounds, a move that triggered the rollout of key infrastructure development projects in line with the Government’s devolution agenda.
The Gwanda–Maphisa Road links several districts and provides access to key economic hubs, including ARDA Antelope Estate, the Makwe Irrigation Scheme, two border posts and a number of tourist attractions in Matobo District.
Upon completion, the road is expected to significantly reduce travel times between Gwanda and surrounding districts, particularly Matobo, while improving access to essential services and unlocking economic opportunities in the mining, agriculture and tourism sectors.
Other major road projects under development in the province include the Plumtree–Maitengwe Road and the Beitbridge–Bulawayo Highway.
The projects form part of Government’s Vision 2030 drive to transform Zimbabwe into an upper-middle-income economy, with a modern and efficient road network identified as a key enabler of economic growth and regional integration.
Residents in the province have expressed optimism over the continued progress on the projects, which are expected to improve connectivity and stimulate local economic activity.
President Mnangagwa has repeatedly reaffirmed the Second Republic’s commitment to developing a modern, integrated transport network capable of positioning Zimbabwe as a regional logistics and trade hub of choice.
Bongani Ndlovu