Online Reporter
Daniel Chigunwe
Herald Correspondent
THE completion of the 19 metres long Gweshe-Vimbi bridge in Mazowe Central Constituency has brought renewed hope for improved mobility, access to health services and socio-economic development, following the successful implementation of the project through Constituency Development Funds (CDF).
The bridge, constructed under the leadership of Mazowe Central Member of Parliament Dr Maxmore Njanji, is situated on one of the busiest roads in the constituency, which serves as a critical link to Howard Mission Hospital and surrounding communities.
For years, residents and motorists endured difficulties, especially during the rainy season, when the road became almost impassable, disrupting transport, trade and access to emergency health services.
The completion of the bridge now ensures safe and reliable passage for patients, health workers, schoolchildren and farmers who depend on the route daily.
Commenting on the development, Dr Njanji said the project reflects Government’s commitment to improving rural infrastructure and service delivery through decentralised funding mechanisms such as CDF.
“This bridge is more than just infrastructure; it is about saving lives, easing movement and supporting social economic activity. Given that it is the passage way to Howard Hospital which is the main medical institution in the district and province, it was imperative to prioritise this road and ensure all-weather access for our people,” he said.
In the same vein, Mazowe Central has also recorded the full completion of the Chiraire Footbridge in Ward 5, another milestone achieved through CDF. The footbridge had deteriorated over decades into a serious safety hazard for villagers.
The rehabilitation of the Chiraire Footbridge has transformed it from a dangerous crossing point into a secure and dependable structure, much to the relief of residents from surrounding villages who rely on it for access to schools, clinics and markets.
Community members have welcomed the developments, describing them as tangible evidence of people-centred development under the Second Republic.
” As the village head, I am relieved that our children, families and communities now have easy access to nearby schools, clinics as well as shops across Chiraire river it serves as the vital cog linking people from the Matepatepa area, Chinehasha, Chiocha, Mukunyadzi, Mukodzongi and aids in various daily socio-economic activities.
” The state of the bridge has been disastrous for many years and this is the first time we have witnessed this rehabilitation and we thank Dr Njanji for remembering us here, ” said Ruwiza village head, Mr Douglas Ruwiza.
With the completion of both the Gweshe-Vimbi bridge and the Chiraire Footbridge, Mazowe Central continues to set a strong example of how CDF can be effectively utilised to address critical infrastructure gaps, promote rural modernisation and improve the quality of life for local communities.
