Chronicle Editor
Vincent Gono, News Editor
INFRASTRUCTURE development projects carried out in Masvingo Province by the Second Republic have opened vast investment opportunities in almost all economic sectors bringing inclusive participation and an empowered society in the province.
The province has experienced a significant transformation in recent years where the implementation of various infrastructure development projects has not only improved the quality of life for its communities but also opened up new investment opportunities laying the foundation for robust economic growth.
Permanent Secretary for Provincial Affairs and Devolution in Masvingo Dr Addmore Pazvakavambwa recently told the Sunday News that the province benefited in a big way from the Second Republic’s infrastructure development thrust.
One of the key aspects of infrastructure development in Masvingo Province is the improvement of transport networks.
The construction and upgrading of road networks have significantly enhanced connectivity within the province and other parts of the country.
“This improved accessibility has facilitated the transportation of goods and services, reducing logistical challenges and enabling businesses to thrive. As a result, investors have been attracted to the province, recognising the potential for increased trade and economic activity,” said Dr Pazvakavambwa.
He said the centrality of Masvingo town to all the major cities of the country makes it a nerve centre for people in transit and the improvement in road infrastructure was a Second Republic masterstroke that makes the provincial capital tick.
“Due to the road upgrading exercise that has been carried out in most parts of the province courtesy of the Second Republic, we have seen more people travelling through the province and that has enhanced communication and trade among our people and other communities from outside the province,” he added.
Dr Pazvakavambwa said another crucial aspect of infrastructure development in Masvingo Province is the focus on energy projects where the province has witnessed the construction of new power plants and the expansion of existing ones, ensuring a more reliable energy supply.
He said power plants such as the $14,6m mini-hydro power plant at Lake Mutirikwi which is expected to have a rated output of five megawatts have been constructed to boost electricity that feeds industrial growth in the province and the country at large. The province is further considering biomass power generation facilities and the setting up of solar farms.
“We hope this development will not only alleviate the power shortages that previously hindered industrial growth but also create opportunities for more renewable energy projects. It is common knowledge that the availability of a stable energy supply attracts investors interested in establishing manufacturing and processing plants, further stimulating economic growth in the province and the country at large.”
He also said there was improved access to clean water and proper sanitation which are essential for the well-being of the communities and the success of any investment.
Infrastructure development projects in Masvingo Province have addressed this vital need by improving water supply systems and sanitation facilities with communities benefiting from piped water schemes such as the one established in the Chombwe community of Chivi District serving wards 6, 7 and 8.
The provision of and access to clean and safe water, along with enhanced sanitation infrastructure, has not only improved the quality of life for residents but has also created opportunities for investment in other areas such as agriculture.
“We are soon going to implement the Tugwi-Mukosi Dam masterplan, and we hope more water will be released for the agricultural benefit of communities in Chivi, Mwenezi and Chiredzi. The province’s agricultural base provides opportunities for value addition and agro-processing industries where investments in food processing, beverage production, agrochemicals, and packaging industries can leverage the region’s agricultural output.”
He said they also hope to see more investments coming in to boost such sectors as tourism and hospitality where opportunities include the development of lodges, hotels and conference facilities and golf courses on islands, boat cruises, safari photography, fish caging, cable cars, canoeing in the dam waters, and fish value chain activities like deboning and fish cold chain.
Dr Pazvakavambwa added that the development of robust communication networks has been instrumental in attracting investment to Masvingo Province.
The establishment of reliable internet connectivity, mobile networks, and broadband infrastructure has transformed the way businesses operate.
This technological advancement has allowed for the establishment of e-commerce platforms, online services, and digital marketing, enabling businesses to reach a wider market.
As a result, entrepreneurs and investors are drawn to the province, recognising the potential for growth and success in the digital economy.
Overall, he said the infrastructure development projects in Masvingo Province have played a vital role in transforming the region and creating new investment opportunities. Improved connectivity, reliable energy supply, enhanced water and sanitation systems, and modernised communication networks have set the stage for economic growth and development.
“These projects have not only attracted local businesses but have also caught the attention of foreign investors seeking to capitalise on the region’s potential.
“It is through these infrastructure initiatives that Masvingo Province has become a hub for
investment, stimulating job creation and improving the overall standard of living for its communities,” he said.
Bongani Ndlovu