Online Reporter
Welcome to our live coverage of a significant milestone in Harare’s infrastructure development. Today, President Mnangagwa will officially commission the multi-million-dollar Mbudzi Interchange, a transformative project designed to alleviate traffic congestion and improve regional connectivity.
With an investment of US$88 million, this landmark structure is strategically located at the bustling intersection of Simon Mazorodze Road, Chitungwiza Road, and High Glen Road.
During the ceremony, the interchange will also be renamed the Trabablas Interchange, marking a new chapter in the history of this vital transport hub.
Stay tuned as our Reporters Zvamaida Murwira and Freeman Razamba, as well as Chief Photographer Believe Nyakudjara, Photographer Justin Mutenda and Videographer Wilson Kakurira bring you updates and highlights from this momentous event!
Scores attend event
People from all walks of life have gathered for the commissioning ceremony of the interchange, which features 15 bridges, all of which have been completed.
Several Cabinet Ministers, including Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona, have arrived at the venue.
Those in attendance are being treated to scintillating entertainment while waiting for the arrival of President Mnangagwa.
Local talent shines in construction of Trabablas Interchange
The interchange was constructed by local resources, local companies, and local engineers, which is consistent with the President’s mantra “Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo,” (A country is developed by its own people.”
It’s construction will boost both domestic and international trade as it will help ease the movement of traffic in the North-South Corridor.
Before its construction, motorists had to endure several hours of choking congestion, something that affected economic production as people spent many hours in traffic jams.
The interchange has elaborate signage that will guide motorists as they navigate it and out to ensure they pick the intended lanes.
Interchange benefits local residents
Local residents in Harare South and neighbouring suburbs such as Glen Norah, Waterfalls, Highfield are happy with the downstream benefits they are enjoying from the construction of the interchange, which include job creation, potable water borehole and booming businesses.
The interchange will also result in an appreciation of value for immovable properties around the area.
President arrives for launch
President Mnangagwa has arrived to officially open to the public and motorists the Mbudzi Interchange in Harare, which is set to be named Trabablas Interchange.
Several Cabinet Ministers, Government officials and Service Chiefs welcomed the President.
President tours Interchange
President Mnangagwa has now taken a ride as part of touring the interchange.
He is also expected to unveil a plaque during the tour before he returns to the main venue to deliver a keynote address.
He is accompanied by Cabinet Ministers led by Transport and Infrastructure Development Minister Felix Mhona and engineers for the project.
Meanwhile, the crowd continue to be treated to entertainment
President commissions Trabablas Interchange
President Mnangagwa has officially opened to the public and motorists the Mbudzi Interchange in Harare, which is now called Trabablas Interchange.
Transport and Infrastructural Development Permanent Secretary, Engineer Joey Makumbe, said the interchange is one of its kind in Zimbabwe and there will be more to come.
Standing ovation for President
President Mnangagwa has now returned from a tour and gets a standing ovation as he greets people.
The crowd is being treated to Chief Hwenje’s all time entertaining song “Mai Welly,”
Official proceedings begin
The national anthem has now been played to signal the commencement of official proceedings in earnest.
This is followed by a prayer by Deputy Chief Secretary in the Office of the President and Cabinet, Reverend Paul Damasane, before a traditional ritual to honour traditional leaders is conducted.
Harare Provincial Minister applauds President Mnangagwa’s exceptional work
Director of Ceremony and Permanent Secretary for Transport and Infrastructure Development, Engineer Joy Makombe invites the Minister of State for Harare Province, Senator Charles Tawengwa, to welcome people.
Minister Tawengwa commends President Mnangagwa for his exceptional leadership that has seen improved road infrastructure.
He said Vision 2030 is no longer a dream but a reality, adding that Harare Province has become a huge beneficiary of the President’s wise leadership.
Minister Tawengwa challenged investors to come and do business in Harare given its conducive environment.
President walking the talk: Minister Mhona
Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona has hailed President Mnangagwa following the commissioning of Trabablas Interchange in Harare.
Minister Mhona said President Mnangagwa is walking the talk with his mantra, “Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo.”
He said the President wants to ensure that all projects countrywide are completed on time.
Minister Mhona highlighted some of the projects that the Government is currently undertaking, including the construction of roads, bridges and border posts.
Zanu PF Government will always deliver, says President Mnangagwa
President Mnangagwa is now on stage to deliver his keynote address.
He said Trabablas Brikadhozo Dzokerai Mabhunu was his revolutionary name during the liberation struggle.
The President said the construction of the interchange was in fulfillment of Zanu PF’s promises made to the people.
“Today, we are seeing real delivery. In Zimbabwe, Zanu PF has no match,” said President Mnangagwa.
The President said the construction of the interchange was in fulfillment of Zanu PF’s promises made to the people.
“Today, we are seeing real delivery. In Zimbabwe, Zanu PF has no match,” said President Mnangagwa. The President called for the proper utilisation of the interchange.
“Let’s remember that infrastructure is as good as how we maintain and utilise it. I want to urge all road users to adhere to road rules and regulations and drive responsibly,” said President Mnangagwa.
He declares the interchange duly opened before ending his speech.
Minister Muchinguri-Kashiri applauds Government’s local funding stance
Defence and War Veteran Affairs Minister Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri is now giving closing remarks.
In her speech she said, “This day will be recognised as one of the watershed moments in your visionary leadership as a listening President and a servant of the people.
“You have a persistent dedication to modernising and transforming Zimbabwe’s transport infrastructure.
“On behalf of the people of Zimbabwe, I wish to express our most profound gratitude to your astute and sound leadership as we live into your Vision 2030, whose intent is to elevate the standards of living of the people of Zimbabwe in an empowered and prosperous upper-middle income society.
“Today we celebrate the commissioning of one of your landmark infrastructure projects. Your Excellency, we greatly cherish your vision, support and leadership.
“Your inward-looking and self-determination development philosophy is bearing dividends.
“This initiative, like many other large-scale projects, was entirely funded by your Government, demonstrating your philosophy of self-reliance and resolve to build a prosperous future with local funding,” said Minister Muchinguri.
