Online Reporter
Freeman Razemba
Senior Reporter
GOVERNMENT has called on the private sector to step up as key partners in infrastructure development as it encourages structured partnerships for contracting and maintenance arrangements, innovative financing models and technical support.
According to the Government, transport delivery requires collaboration between governments, local authorities, parastatals and the private sector.
This was said by Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Advocate Felix Mhona, on Thursday, when he made a presentation on ‘The role of transport sector in streamlining strategic thinking for planning process for effective delivery of NDS 2 at the Zimbabwe Institute of Strategic Thinking (ZIST) NDS2 stakeholders conference, held in Mutoko.
In his presentation, Minister Mhona highlighted that the transport sector was not just about moving goods and people, but it was the backbone of strategic planning for the effective delivery of the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2).
“Why transport matters for NDS 2? Let me begin by emphasising that transport is not only a sector, it is a national enabler,” he said.
“Roads, rail, inland waterways, air and logistics systems determine how quickly ideas, goods, people and services move across Zimbabwe.
“Without reliable transport networks and efficient logistics, strategic plans remain paper promises, and economic blueprints cannot translate into real outcomes.”
The minister also outlined the ministry’s role, saying its core responsibility is to oversee and guide the development of our nation’s transport and infrastructure sectors.
“This encompasses the formulation and implementation of national policies that set the framework for effective transport systems across the country,” he said.
“Our Ministry plays a crucial role in planning, designing, constructing, and maintaining transport infrastructure, ensuring that our projects comply with both national and international standards.
“We are dedicated to providing and managing services that prioritise the safety of all forms of traffic—be it road, rail, air, or inland waterways. Additionally, we supervise, administer, and enforce relevant national and international regulations, treaties, and protocols that govern every aspect of the transport sector.
“This comprehensive oversight serves to ensure a seamless and efficient transport network that meets the needs of our citizens. In line with this mandate, the Government is steadfast in its commitment to fostering a favourable business environment.”
He said transport investments should be planned around outcomes such as increased trade and market access for producers, stronger regional and national integration, reduced cost of doing business, job creation along value chains, and higher resilience to disruptions (fuel price volatility and weather events).
On rehabilitation and construction of national roads, Minister Mhona said the transportation infrastructure serves as the backbone of economic activity, facilitating trade and enhancing mobility for individuals and goods alike.
The current state of our roads presents both challenges and significant opportunities for growth.
“We firmly believe that the private sector plays a crucial role in this transformation,” he said. “Therefore, we must move from isolated projects to integrated transport programs that include infrastructure works as shown by the following initiatives being followed by the Ministry; completion of Harare -Masvingo-Beitbridge Highway project by year end, rehabilitation of Bulawayo-Victoria Falls Road project, construction and rehabilitation of Harare-Chirundu Road project, Harare-Nyamapanda roads construction and Modernisation of Border Post, rehabilitation of Harare-Kanyemba Road project, Bulawayo -Nkayi Road, modernisation of Border Posts (Forbes, Chirundu, Nyamapanda and Plumtree) and construction of Interchanges along our major road corridors.”
Minister Mhona said the railway sector was strategic for the efficient movement of both cargo and passengers, serving as a critical link in our national supply chain.
