Online Reporter
Nkosilathi Sibanda [email protected]
THE Second Republic’s development policy, anchored on Vision 2030, has been hailed for reviving the construction industry by driving infrastructure development and creating numerous opportunities for indigenous companies to grow.
With as many civil projects being undertaken countrywide, ranging from dams, roads, housing, schools, cinics and other amenities, the sector’s players are thankful for trust Government has put in them as partners in uplifting the economy.
These remarks were made at an event marking Asphalt Civil Engineering’s 30th anniversary celebrations in Bulawayo, where various speakers highlighted on the positive impact of Government’s policies.
The firm’s managing director and co- founder, Engineer Francis Mangwendeza said the Second Republic’s infrastructure agenda, anchored on the mantra “Nyika Inovakwa Nevene Vayo/Ilizwe Lakhiwa Ngabanikazi Balo” and the vision of leaving no one and no place behind, had transformed the fortunes of local contractors.
He said the present situation has created jobs and contributed to national development.
“When President Mnangagwa committed to revive the economy and uplift people’s livelihoods, the civil engineering and construction sector embraced that vision. We are grateful that indigenous companies are now being entrusted with major national projects,” he said.
“In the early years of our formation, many people in Government and other institutions doubted whether indigenous companies had the capacity to undertake major civil engineering works. I am pleased that this perception has changed. Government’s policies have empowered local companies, enabling us to secure contracts and demonstrate our capabilities.”
Engineer Mangwendeza said the company currently employs about 180 people across Zimbabwe and has been involved in several strategic infrastructure projects, including works undertaken ahead of the SADC Summit, sections of the Bulawayo-Victoria Falls Road, the Kezi Road and other major civil engineering projects.
“Our growth is a reflection of the opportunities created through Government’s infrastructure development programme. While it has not been an easy journey, we remain committed to delivering quality infrastructure that serves the nation,” he said.
Looking back on the company’s three-decade journey, Engineer Mangwendeza said they made significant contributions to infrastructure development, particularly in Matabeleland North, Matabeleland South and Bulawayo Metropolitan Province.
“For the past 30 years we have focused on building roads, water infrastructure and civil works that directly improve the lives of communities. We are proud that many of the roads and water projects we completed in the late 1990s are still serving communities today. That is the quality we strive for as we contribute towards Vision 2030,” he said.
He added that the company had consistently prioritised local employment, skills transfer and the use of local suppliers in its projects.
Bulawayo Mayor, Senator David Coltart, who was the guest of honour, commended the company for its contribution to improving the city’s infrastructure and supporting municipal service delivery.
“Asphalt Civil Engineering has been a reliable partner to the City of Bulawayo and to the people of Matabeleland. The roads, drainage systems and water infrastructure they have delivered have improved access to services, reduced travel times and created employment opportunities,” said Sen Coltart.
He said partnerships between Government and the private sector were essential if Zimbabwe was to achieve its Vision 2030 goal of becoming an upper-middle-income economy.
“Companies that invest in quality, employ local people and remain committed for decades are critical to building the Zimbabwe we all want,” he said.
Engineer Mangwendeza said the company’s next phase of growth would focus on investment in modern construction technologies, climate-resilient infrastructure and youth skills development to support rural industrialisation and urban renewal programmes.
The anniversary celebrations were attended by Government officials, business leaders and community representatives from Bulawayo and other provinces.
