Online Reporter
Freeman Razemba
Senior Reporter
The wait is finally over! Today, President Mnangagwa will officially cut the ribbon to open the multi-million dollar Mbudzi Interchange, which is set to be named Trabablas Interchange, a Second Republic signature infrastructure project that is anticipated to enhance traffic flow and improve connectivity not only in Zimbabwe but in the region.
The US$88 million Mbudzi Interchange is at the intersection of Simon Mazorodze, Chitungwiza and High Glen roads in Harare.
With no outside financial assistance, Zimbabwe has been self-financing its projects, using local contractors, showing the world that against all odds the country can do it.
The old Mbudzi roundabout had been a major vehicle traffic choke-point in southern Harare before the Government committed resources to turn it into an interchange, as the Second Republic continues to upgrade infrastructure to cope with modern demands and trends.
The interchange links Zimbabwe with South Africa, its biggest trading partner.
Some of the benefits of the project include the decongestion of the Mbudzi area by creating streamlined and efficient traffic flow and reducing transit time and accidents in the area.
On Wednesday, Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona, led an inspection tour of the project site.
He was accompanied by Tourism and Hospitality Minister Barbra Rwodzi, Transport and Infrastructural Development permanent secretary, Engineer Joey Makumbe, and other Government officials.
Ahead of the opening of the project, Masvingo-Glen Norah Loop was temporarily closed but will be opened today, after the official opening.
In a statement, the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development confirmed that preparations are now at an advanced stage for the commissioning of the interchange.
The now complete traffic interchange is not only a transformative piece of engineering genius but also registers as yet another milestone under the leadership of President Mnangagwa.
“This interchange will boost connectivity, ease traffic and drive economic growth, reaffirming the Government’s commitment to modernising Zimbabwe’s transport network. The wait is finally over,” reads the statement.
In another statement, the ministry announced the temporary closure of the Masvingo-Glen Norah Loop, advising motorists to use alternative routes.
“The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development, through its Department of Roads, is completing final preparations for the official opening and commissioning of the Trabablas Interchange on Friday, May 30, 2025, by His Excellency, the President, Cde Dr ED Mnangagwa.
“To ensure the safety of all road users and facilitate the smooth opening of this major transformative project, the Masvingo-Glen Norah Loop will be temporarily closed from May 29, 2025, to May 30, 2025.
“During this period, motorists are advised to use alternative routes, such as Amalinda Road. The ministry sincerely regrets any inconvenience caused and appreciates the public’s cooperation and understanding,” reads the statement.
The design for the Mbudzi interchange is made up of 15 bridges, with 13 directly on the interchange, while two bridges are each on Amalinda Drive and Harare Drive.
