Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma, [email protected]
THE Government has embarked on a major road rehabilitation programme in Bulilima District, with work underway on key routes expected to improve connectivity, facilitate cross-border trade and ease the movement of people and goods.
The roads being rehabilitated include the Plumtree-Maitengwe, Plumtree-Tsholotsho and Plumtree-Ndolwane roads with a combined 40km targeted for construction or tarring under the current projects.
A 10km stretch of the Plumtree-Maitengwe Road, running from Plumtree town to just beyond Tsambani shops at Makwa River, is being tarred and is expected to be completed by November.
The Plumtree-Tsholotsho Road is also undergoing construction, with a 20km stretch from Plumtree town to Bhagani Business Centre expected to be completed by the end of February 2027.
Another 10km stretch along the Plumtree-Ndolwane Road, from Bhagani Business Centre to Nyele Business Centre, is in the pipeline and is expected to be completed by the same deadline.
The rehabilitation of the Plumtree-Maitengwe Road is expected to improve connectivity to Botswana through the busy Maitengwe Border Post, easing the movement of people and goods while supporting trade between the two countries.
The improved road network is also expected to reduce vehicle operating costs, shorten travel times and create better conditions for businesses operating along the routes.
Bulilima legislator Dingumuzi Phuti said the projects demonstrated Government’s commitment to extending development to rural communities.
“We are happy that the construction of tarred roads in Bulilima is taking shape and all this is because of His Excellency, President Mnangagwa’s quality leadership of ensuring that every place in the country is developed to modern standards,” he said.
“This is something we are witnessing in Bulilima District and we would like to thank the President for such life-changing initiatives.”
For residents, the road projects represent a major improvement in accessibility, particularly during the rainy season.
Mr Innocent Ndlovu (43), of Village 28 in Dombolefu Ward, said the road project would transform movement in the area.
“This is history in the making since we have been struggling with dusty roads for decades. During the rains, movement was almost impossible,” he said.
“This new road is a game changer, ensuring easier travel, safer journeys and even opportunities for our children to go to school in town. I never thought I would see this in my lifetime.”
Transport operators also welcomed the development, saying improved roads would reduce vehicle maintenance costs and improve service delivery to passengers.
A transport operator identified only as Mdawini, who runs a commuter service along the Plumtree-Madlambudzi route, described the current gravel road as a “nightmare”.
“Due to the poor state of the road, the repairs are endless. Passengers complain when we’re delayed because of the poor road.
“However, with a tarred road, business will flow, vehicles will last longer and our customers will finally enjoy smoother rides,” he said.
Another motorist, Ms Sandisiwe Nleya, said the road project was long overdue.
A worker from a local construction company working on the tar road construction along the Plumtree-Maitengwe road recently (Pictures by Mthabisi Tshuma)
“Since Independence, we’ve been waiting for this kind of development. It feels good to see our Government investing in us. Driving will no longer be a burden but a pleasure,” she said.
Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona is expected to tour the project site in October to assess progress.
—@mthabisi_mthire
