Online Reporter
Raymond Jaravaza, [email protected]
Government has moved to accelerate the rehabilitation of the Bulawayo-Kezi Road by engaging additional contractors as preparations intensify for the 2026 Independence Day celebrations set to be hosted for the first time in Matabeleland South Province.
The strategic road upgrade follows a Cabinet decision to hold the national commemorations at Maphisa Open Grounds in Matobo District, a move that has triggered a raft of infrastructure development projects under the Second Republic’s devolution thrust.
Initially, Zada Construction Company had been awarded the contract to rehabilitate the key corridor, which links Bulawayo to Matabeleland South and serves as a vital route for trade, tourism and agricultural activity. However, the Government has since broadened contractor participation to ensure the works are completed well ahead of the Independence celebrations.
Minister of State for Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution Cde Albert Nguluvhe said the rehabilitation will cover 114 kilometres from Bulawayo to Kezi.
“Government has engaged more contractors to work on the Bulawayo-Kezi Road so that rehabilitation works are completed in time for the Independence Day celebrations that our province will proudly host,” said Minister Nguluvhe.
He said he was confident the companies awarded the contract will deliver quality infrastructure that will leave a lasting legacy for the province.
The first 20 kilometres of the project, stretching from Bulawayo to the Matabeleland South provincial boundary, will be handled by a single contractor while other contractors will work on various sections extending through Matopos National Park up to Kezi Business Centre.
Matabeleland South Provincial Roads Engineer Mr Mangisi Nkomo said the project involves both full-scale reconstruction and surface rehabilitation.
“A total of 63 kilometres will undergo road reconstruction while other sections will receive asphalt overlaying and resealing, depending on the extent of damage,” he said.
The Bulawayo-Kezi Road is not only a key commuter route but also a major tourism artery linking the city to the Matobo Hills World Heritage Site, Kezi and surrounding rural communities. Its upgrade is expected to improve road safety, reduce travel times and stimulate economic activity in Matabeleland South province.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development has announced temporary partial road closures to allow rehabilitation works to proceed.
In a public notice, the ministry said Matopos Road will be partially closed from Cecil Avenue to the Matabeleland South boundary from Monday until February 16.
“Phase One will involve partial closure from Cecil Avenue to Four Winds Shopping Centre from February 2 to 9, while Phase Two will cover the stretch from Four Winds Shopping Centre to the Matabeleland South boundary from February 10 to 16,” the ministry said.
Motorists have been advised that traffic will be rerouted around construction zones using internal residential roads, while heavy vehicles will be temporarily restricted from accessing certain sections.
“To ensure the safety of motorists and construction personnel, road users are urged to obey traffic signs, reduce speed and allow extra travel time,” the ministry said.
Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development Permanent Secretary Engineer Joy Makumbe said the rehabilitation of the Bulawayo-Kezi Road is part of Government’s broader programme to modernise the national road network.
“Government is committed to ensuring value for money, with emphasis on the timely commencement and quality execution of works,” said Eng Makumbe.
She added that while the rainy season poses challenges, it is not expected to derail the project.
“Modern construction methodologies and contractual provisions account for seasonal variations. During heavy rains, contractors may focus on drainage works, culvert installation, material procurement and site preparation,” she said.
“The priority remains the safety of the workforce and the travelling public, as well as the long-term integrity of the road. With proper planning, the impact of the rainy season on project timelines will be minimised.”
The road upgrade is expected to play a central role in improving access to Matobo District ahead of the 2026 Independence celebrations, while delivering long-term economic and social benefits to communities in Matabeleland South.
