Online Reporter
Patrick Chitumba, Zimpapers Writer
THE rehabilitation of the Kwekwe-Lupane-Nkayi Road, which was in bad shape has begun in earnest after the contractor moved onto the site last week.
The road is strategic as it reduces the distance from Kwekwe to Victoria Falls by about 100 kilometres, but its poor condition has given nightmares to motorists, leading many to prefer the longer Bulawayo route.
The Minister of State for Midlands Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Owen Ncube, recently toured a section of the road being rehabilitated in Silobela.
In his remarks, he highlighted that despite economic sanctions, drought and the effects of Covid-19, the Second Republic under the visionary leadership of President Mnangagwa has been implementing people-centred projects.
“The rehabilitation of Kwekwe-Silobela-Nkayi Road has commenced, marking a milestone achievement that has been warmly welcomed by the local community,” he said.
Minister Ncube added that once complete, the road will spur socio-economic development in areas stretching from Kwekwe to Nkayi.
He said the development follows a recent Cabinet announcement regarding the long-overdue rehabilitation of the Kwekwe-Nkayi-Lupane Road.
Minister Ncube described the decision as a significant step towards improving infrastructure and connectivity in the region.
“The Second Republic under President Mnangagwa is doing wonders for the people. Once complete, the road will cut the distance between Kwekwe and Victoria Falls by about 100km, and as I have alluded to, members of the community are happy with the development,” he said.
During a recent Post-Cabinet Press briefing, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Jenfan Muswere said the Government had concluded arrangements for the rehabilitation and reconstruction of several roads across the country, including the Kwekwe-Nkayi-Lupane Road, with immediate effect.
Silobela MP Cde Jonah Nyevera emphasised the road’s strategic importance in reducing the distance from Kwekwe to Victoria Falls adding that the road will spur economic activities and make it easy for communities to connect to major markets.
He said, “The road is a lifeline to villagers, businesses and schools along the route and I commend the Second Republic led by President Mnangagwa for availing funds towards its rehabilitation.”
A villager from Silobela, Mrs Charity Sibanda, expressed relief over the project, saying commuter omnibus operators had been overcharging due to the bad state of the road.
“Imagine paying between US$6 to US$10 for a distance or journey that usually costs US$4. So, we are very grateful to the Second Republic for coming to our aid through the rehabilitation of the road,” she said.
