Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo, Check Point Desk
A major road infrastructure project, set to bring considerable benefits to Matabeleland South, has officially started. The construction of the first of 42 homes is now underway to accommodate the realignment of the Old Gwanda Road.
The ambitious realignment scheme, involving a vital economic route connecting Gwanda and Bulawayo, has been subject to lengthy delays due to disrepair, hindering transport, trade, and connectivity for rural communities in the Umzingwane District and the wider area.
Zwane Enterprise, the company spearheading the US$150 million project, confirmed that heavy earthmoving equipment would be on-site by early June as roadworks commence. The project encompasses the development of modern road infrastructure, fuel stations, tollgates, and rural shopping malls, widely hailed as a game-changer for Umzingwane District and its surrounding areas.
The Chief Executive Officer of Zwane Enterprise, Engineer Bekithemba Mbambo, said preparatory works, including road design, land applications, and the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), are already in progress.
“We are working hard on preparatory tasks such as road design, land applications, and the EIA, to clear the path for yellow machinery on the road. We have already commenced construction of the first homestead at Ntunjambili,” said Engineer Mbambo.
He added that construction of the remaining 41 homesteads would begin once the final road alignment is confirmed.
The relocation of graves, Engineer Mbambo said, will adhere to traditional protocols and be guided by local chiefs in consultation with officials from the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works.
He emphasised that the homesteads would be completed before the relocation of families, with occupancy expected shortly thereafter. Engineer Mbambo also disclosed that the company had replaced its initial road designer due to inadequate qualifications.
“He had no qualifications to design the road. When we asked him to present his credentials, he failed to do so. We have since engaged a qualified replacement,” he said.
Engineer Mbambo expressed confidence that the company would fulfil all the requirements of the Concession Agreement within the stipulated 90 days. The agreement with the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development was signed four weeks ago, formally launching the project.
To ensure smooth progress, eight contractors have been engaged under a model inspired by the Government’s multi-contractor approach used in the Beitbridge–Harare–Chirundu Highway upgrade.
The road carries historical and economic significance for the province. It connects Bulawayo—Zimbabwe’s second-largest city—with Gwanda, the provincial capital of Matabeleland South. It is a key route for the transportation of agricultural produce, mining inputs, and rural commuters. Its rehabilitation is expected to reduce transport costs significantly and boost regional trade.
In March, the project received cultural and spiritual blessings through traditional and religious ceremonies held in Dula, Umzingwane District. Vice President Kembo Mohadi led the traditional ceremony, while a Christian service was held at the Brethren in Christ Church at Matopo Mission.
Speaking on behalf of VP Mohadi, the Permanent Secretary for Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Mrs Latiso Dlamini-Maseko, commended the spirit of unity and cooperation between investors and the local community. She reiterated the Government’s commitment to supporting entrepreneurial initiatives that contribute to national development.
