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Conrad Mupesa, Mashonaland West Bureau
The ongoing upgrade of the Kadoma-Sanyati Road, a vital link between southern Mashonaland West and Gokwe District in the Midlands Province, has garnered praise from motorists and residents alike.
So far, 30km of the 84 km route have been upgraded, with an additional 5km under construction.
The project is expected to be completed by the end of next month and will be a major route towards this year Independence Day Celebrations on April 18, slated for Gokwe.
A private contractor, supervised by Government, has resumed work after initial upgrades stalled near the Golden Valley business centre.
This phase includes tarring and widening the road from Golden Valley to the Munyati River Bridge, which marks the border between the two provinces.
Residents have expressed relief at the prospect of improved road conditions, which are anticipated to lower transport fares and reduce travel times.
“The upgrade of the road will improve travel and lower the exorbitant fares we currently pay. Transporters charge us at least US$15 to 20 for the 84km journey,” said Ms Ngonidzashashe Moyo.
A local businesswoman noted that poor road conditions had inflated transportation costs, thereby raising prices for goods.
“We have seen a drop in fares so far, and we are hopeful that this trend continues,” she added.
Mr Achim Shadaya, CEO of Sanyati Rural District Council, said that the road improvements would likely attract more investments to ARDA Business Centre.
Provincial Roads Engineer Simbarashe Gomo said the Government is committed to ensuring that the country’s roads meet Southern African transport standards.
Recently, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, the Mr Nick Mangwana, described the upgrade as excellent news for the region, saying it has potential to transform the economy and support agricultural production, trade, and tourism in Zimbabwe.
The upgrades to the Kadoma-Sanyati Road are part of a broader commitment by the Second Republic towards improving infrastructure, with other major roads in Mashonaland West also set for enhancements.
Online Reporter