Online Reporter
Mukudzei Chingwere and Michael Tome
THE Government says it recognises the challenges faced by the local construction industry and is committed to creating an enabling environment for the sector’s players to thrive.
This was said by Vice President Dr Constantino Chiwenga while addressing delegates at the Construction Industry Federation of Zimbabwe (CIFOZ) 2025 Annual General Meeting and Congress in Masvingo yesterday.
Running under the theme, “Building Smarter: Advancing Innovation And Efficiency For A Sustainable Future,” the conference sought to craft ideas and mechanisms that propel local construction sector efficiency and innovation.
VP Chiwenga said the Government acknowledges the challenges faced by construction sector players, including limited access to finance and cumbersome procurement processes.
He noted that these hurdles are stifling local construction sector growth and innovation, but the Government is taking proactive steps to address these issues and create a more favourable business environment.
As such, the Government intends to review existing policies to identify areas for improvement and ensure they are conducive to the growth of the construction sector.
This review will help to create a more supportive and enabling environment for construction companies to thrive.
VP Chiwenga said the Government acknowledges the challenges faced by construction sector players, including limited access to finance and cumbersome procurement processes.
VP Chiwenga also said efforts are being made to streamline procurement processes, reduce bureaucracy and make it easier for construction players to participate in Government projects to encourage more companies to participate in the sector.
He said the Government’s ultimate goal was to promote growth, innovation and improve the competitiveness of the construction sector.
It also seeks to support the development of a vibrant and diverse construction industry.
Before his address, VP Chiwenga was led on a tour of exhibitions at Clevers Hotel by the manager Joyprint Tivaone, accompanied by Masvingo Provincial Affairs Minister Ezra Chadzamira and Zanu PF Masvingo Provincial chairperson Robson Mavhenyengwa.
They viewed innovative technologies and upcoming infrastructure projects aligned with Vision 2030.
The Congress brought together stakeholders from across the country to strengthen collaboration in the construction sector and drive infrastructural growth and economic transformation.
Key players in the industry showcased their work, highlighting progress towards Zimbabwe’s national vision.
Yesterday’s event emphasised the importance of public-private sector collaboration in accelerating Zimbabwe’s infrastructure development and economic growth, in line with Vision 2030.
“Government remains committed to creating an enabling environment.
VP Chiwenga said Government recognises its shared responsibility with stakeholders to deliver efficient, innovative and sustainable infrastructure.
“We recognise the challenges you face, from limited access to finance and equipment to cumbersome procurement processes.
“We are reviewing policies, easing procurement processes, unlocking affordable lines of credit, and ensuring that even our Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises in construction have fair access to opportunities,” said VP Chiwenga.
The construction sector has long been bedevilled with shortages of affordable lines of credit, which are necessary for the financing of big projects and the creation of more jobs.
VP Chiwenga said Government recognises its shared responsibility with stakeholders to deliver efficient, innovative and sustainable infrastructure.
He also condemned corruption, tender manipulation and unethical dealings in the construction sector, advocating for building the Zimbabwean construction industry on honesty, hard work and professionalism.
“We understand that together, we have a shared responsibility to deliver infrastructure that is efficient, inclusive, innovative and sustainable. However, let me emphasise that this partnership must be grounded on ethics, transparency, and purposeful leadership.
“Let this Congress mark a collective pledge: that the Zimbabwean construction industry shall be built on the pillars of honesty, hard work, and professionalism,” said VP Chiwenga.
CIFOZ incoming president, Engineer Elinah Soko, said local construction players will continue working with the Government to create a good working environment that spurs growth and innovation.
“Local construction players are committed to collaborating with the Government to foster a conducive working environment that promotes growth, innovation, and development in the industry.
“Through this partnership, we aim to identify and address challenges, share expertise, and leverage opportunities to drive progress and deliver high-quality infrastructure projects,” said Eng Soko.
Zimbabwe’s construction industry has lately been experiencing significant growth, driven by the Government’s confidence and faith in local contractors.
Notably, major road projects such as the Harare-Beitbridge Road construction and the Bulawayo-Victoria Falls Road reconstruction have showcased local contractors’ capabilities while enhancing regional connectivity.
The industry has also made strides in dam construction, with projects like the Lake Gwayi Shangani Dam supporting agriculture and water supply and the Kunzvi Dam expected to be commissioned in 2026.
