Online Reporter
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, Matabeleland South Bureau
THE construction of the Gwanda-Maphisa Road in Matabeleland South Province is gathering momentum with the first 10 kilometres set to be surfaced soon as the Government intensifies efforts to expedite the project.
The road’s surfacing is targeted for completion by March next year ahead of the Independence Day celebrations scheduled to be held in Matobo District.
Work on the road began following a Cabinet decision to host the 2026 Independence Day celebrations at Maphisa Open Grounds.
The decision has spurred the rollout of key infrastructure development projects aligned with the Government’s devolution agenda.
The Gwanda-Maphisa Road is crucial for boosting connectivity and driving economic growth in the region. It links several districts to vital economic centres, including Arda Antelope, the Makwe Irrigation Scheme, two border posts and various tourist attractions in Matobo District. Once completed, the road is expected to significantly cut travel times between Gwanda and surrounding districts, especially Matobo, thereby improving access to essential services and unlocking new opportunities in mining, agriculture and tourism.
Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister, Cde Albert Nguluvhe affirmed his commitment to completing the project on time.
He emphasised that the initiative aligns with the Government’s philosophy of “leaving no one and no place behind.”
“Several key infrastructure projects are underway in Matabeleland South as we prepare to host next year’s Uhuru celebrations,” said Minister Nguluvhe.
He described the Gwanda-Maphisa Road as the province’s “heartbeat,” highlighting that its completion will reduce travel distances by over 150 kilometres for some communities. This route is the shortest link for travellers from Gwanda, Beitbridge, Insiza and even Masvingo to Maphisa.
The completion of the road upgrade is expected to enhance intra-district connectivity and stimulate economic activities across the province.
“This project is one of the priorities we aim to finish before next year’s Independence Day celebrations,” added Cde Nguluvhe.
Matabeleland South Provincial Roads Engineer, Mangisi Nkomo, noted that the Gwanda-Maphisa Road is among several major roads undergoing rehabilitation as part of the broader infrastructure development agenda of the Second Republic.
Recently, during a site tour, Transport and Infrastructural Development Deputy Minister, Joshua Sacco, revealed that four contractors have been engaged to ensure the project’s timely completion. Current works include resealing 15km and constructing an additional 10km stretch.
Deputy Minister Sacco, emphasised that the project aligns with the Government’s overarching goal of establishing a fully connected and accessible road network for all communities nationwide.
The Gwanda-Maphisa Road project is a legacy initiative, especially significant as Matabeleland South prepares to host next year’s Independence celebrations. Other ongoing road projects include the Plumtree–Maitengwe Road, Bulawayo–Kezi Road and the Beitbridge–Bulawayo Highway.
The efforts are part of the Government’s Vision 2030 plan to transform Zimbabwe into an upper-middle-income society, with a modern, efficient road network playing a central role in the vision.
The Bulawayo-Maphisa Road is also being upgraded in honour of the late Father Zimbabwe, further supporting the Second Republic’s devolution and regional integration efforts. The road extension to Mpoengs Border with Botswana aims to enhance regional connectivity, fostering economic growth and social cohesion.
Driving infrastructure development remains a key priority for the Government, recognising that improved infrastructure is vital for accelerated economic growth. —@DubeMatutu
