Gweru receives ZWG7 million for road maintenance

THE Zimbabwe National Road Administration (Zinara) has disbursed over ZWG7 million to Gweru City Council (GCC) for road maintenance and rehabilitation so far this year.

These funds are part of a larger allocation to urban local authorities aimed at improving the country’s road network.

GCC has further received a percentage of fuel disbursement.

The council has also used these funds to engage contract workers for road maintenance and patching.

The support has enabled council to make progress in infrastructure development, including road projects. In an interview, Gweru Mayor Councillor Martin Chivhoko said Zinara funds are being used in road rehabilitation.

“As of 2025, we have received ZWG7 193 195,40 from Zinara. Ongoing projects include Igonte Road Surfacing Works, Tar Pothole Patching in the CBD and critical routes, and gravel application for pothole repair,” he said.

Clr Chivhoko said while the Road Fund is inadequate to fully rehabilitate over 1 000km of the network requiring attention, they are using internal plans to supplement funding for fuel, equipment procurement, and servicing.

“The council’s revenue comes from various sources, including Zinara funding, internal revenue generation (rates, fees, and services), and potential public-private partnerships (PPPs),” he said.

“We are exploring ways to diversify our revenue streams and ensure sustainable funding for our projects and services.”

Clr Chivhoko said City Parking was also a valuable asset for the city, adding that they are exploring ways to maximise its potential.
He said partnership between GCC and City Parking is yielding positive results, with the local authority benefiting from improved service delivery and corporate social responsibility initiatives.
“In the past we utilised revenue from City Parking’s vehicle parking management system to purchase essential equipment and enhance infrastructure. We acquired a tractor-loader backhoe for road maintenance and street lighting, as well as wheelchairs for individuals with disabilities,” he said.
Clr Chivhoko expressed gratitude for City Parking’s consistent dividend payments, which enable the council to address key service delivery issues.
He highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships in enhancing service delivery to residents, stating that the council plans to continue leveraging these partnerships to improve the city’s infrastructure and services.
“While we cannot disclose profits as we have not consulted our partner to disclose, we are committed to ensuring the partnership is viable and beneficial to the city. Gweru City Council is working tirelessly to improve the lives of its residents through various initiatives and projects.
“We are committed to delivering quality services and ensuring sustainable development for the city,” said the mayor.