Sundaymail Editor
Leroy Dzenga
When Cyclone Idai ravaged the Eastern parts of Zimbabwe, the Kopa-Jopa road, which connects Chimanimani and Chipinge Districts, was left damaged beyond use.
The 21-kilometre road was largely gravel and when Minister of Local Government and Public Works July Moyo promised not only repairs but an upgrade too, critics laughed in scorn.
Two years down the line, the road is now nearing completion with final touches which include finalisation of trenches on the sides of the roads, to ensure that in the event of episodes of heavy downpours, the water has a channel to run off.
A recent drive along the road, saw Bitumen World employees, working on different parts of the road, which now runs smoothly to Kopa shopping centre.
Chimanimani District Development coordinator Mr Joseph Manyurapasi said the road, which helps communities in Chipinge and Chimanimani reach markets for their horticulture and fruit produce, is almost done.
“We have recorded progress on the road. Since the last update we received, the road was about 95 percent complete. I am sure when we receive the latest briefing, it would be higher than that,” said Mr Manyurapasi.
The men and women who have been working on the road have been working very hard
Alderman Benard Muzamani of Ward 23 in Chimanimani said the road will have a positive economic effect on the local economy.
“This road is a very important road in that it helps our people move their produce to Chimanimani, Chipinge and Mutare where they access most of their markets,” he said.
Government has been on a spirited drive to rehabilitate roads damaged by last year’s heavy rains and Cyclone Idai under the Emergency Road Rehabilitation Programme.
Online Reporter