Chronicle Editor
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]
THE Gwanda Municipality has partnered with investors to modernise the town’s central business district (CBD), focusing on upgrading the main bus terminus and the vendors market to state-of-the-art facilities.
In an interview, Gwanda Mayor, Alderman Thulani Moyo, said the projects aim to restore order in the mining town’s CBD while providing transport operators and vendors with proper working spaces.
“The vendors market, which has been rehabilitated and expanded, is set to accommodate about 350 vendors and will be commissioned soon. The old market was sub-standard, but we are transforming it into modern infrastructure equipped with toilets, lighting, and secure stalls,” said Alderman Moyo.
“Vendors will now be able to work late and safely store their wares overnight.”
The upgraded bus terminus, currently housing public service vehicles that service the Gwanda-Bulawayo route and other local routes, will also undergo significant development. The space will be paved, lit, and equipped with proper signage to enhance order and assist travellers.
The municipality partnered with Gwanda Tshitaudze Constituency legislator, Fisani Moyo, to rehabilitate the vendor market, while South African-based businessman, Mr Cabangani Mangena of Mzansi Transport, is spearheading the bus terminus upgrade.
“These partnerships are part of our broader strategy to align with the Call to Action blueprint for local authorities launched by President Mnangagwa last year,” said Alderman Moyo.
The mayor said these developments are critical in addressing illegal vending and unregulated pick-up points in the CBD.
“By creating designated and functional spaces for vendors and transport operators, we aim to cultivate a culture of order in Gwanda, improving the town’s image and making it more attractive to investors,” he said.
“Once these facilities have been established, we expect operators to take ownership of these facilities and respect the municipality’s efforts. This will also encourage clients to access services in designated areas.”
Beyond the CBD, the municipality plans to upgrade and expand markets, taxi ranks, and bus termini in high-density areas. Alderman Moyo called on other stakeholders and development partners to support these infrastructure initiatives.
“These projects are a stepping stone towards modernising our town and aligning with the national development agenda. We envision Gwanda as a town where infrastructure supports economic growth and enhances the quality of life for residents,” he said.
Alderman Moyo said the revamped facilities are expected to set a precedent for further development projects in Gwanda, ultimately contributing to its transformation into a well-organised and investor-friendly town.
“We appeal to other development partners to assist us in these infrastructure development projects as we want to develop proper infrastructure and working spaces across the town.” —@DubeMatutu
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