dyton mupawaenda
Mukudzei Chingwere
Herald Reporter
As Zimbabwe gears up to celebrate its 45th Independence Day, on April 18, the country stands at a pivotal moment of transformation, particularly in the realm of infrastructure.
The Second Republic has made significant strides in improving and expanding the country’s road network, a feat that promises to enhance connectivity, stimulate economic growth and ensure that no citizen is left behind.
One of the most notable achievements of the Second Republic is the extensive construction and upgrading of major highways, including the Harare-Masvingo-Beitbridge road.
This crucial route not only facilitates trade and travel but also plays an instrumental role in linking Zimbabwe and South Africa, the country’s biggest trading partner, thereby enhancing regional commerce.
The upgrade of this highway has been characterised by the addition of modern features, including better signage, improved safety measures and enhanced road surfaces that withstand increased traffic loads.
The Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development Felix Mhona is on record describing the roads they are constructing as durable as a backbone of the economy.
“The Harare-Masvingo-Beitbridge road is crucial for our trade and transportation. We are committed to ensuring it meets international standards.
“These roads we are constructing can last up to 20 years without needing major maintenance works.”
This week Government provided an optimistic update on the Kadoma-Sanyati-Nembudziya road which is the route to this year’s independence celebrations venue in Nembudziya-Gokwe.
This route not only facilitates access to the celebrations but also serves as a crucial link between Mashonaland West and Midlands provinces.
Minister Mhona said it is the Government’s commitment to ensure that all citizens can access the celebrations easily.
He said currently, a contractor is hard at work on a 20-kilometre stretch of the road, which is expected to be completed in time for the celebrations.
“As we speak the contractor is on site working on the 20-kilometre stretch,” said Minister Mhona.
“We will not stop attending to these roads, we are going to tar the entire road to Nembudziya but for now we are working on the 20 kilometre stretch which we are sure by the time we go to the independence celebrations will be complete.
“We will make sure that the remaining part is trafficable but we will continue with the reconstruction of the road up to Nembudziya,” said Minister Mhona.
While the focus remains on tarring the 20-kilometre stretch for now, the Minister confirmed that efforts to reconstruct the entire route will continue, ensuring that all parts of the road remain passable for both residents and visitors.
“There is no one and no place that is going to be left behind, and we are so happy that we are having our celebrations, the 45th independence celebrations in Gokwe,” said Minister Mhona.
“Besides the celebrations, we had started this project which is also the shortest road that links Mashonaland West province and Midlands province.”
Another important project under the Second Republic is the development of roads leading to the New Parliament Building in the Mt Hampden area in Harare.
This initiative is not just about improving access to the new city but also speaks to the expansion of modern infrastructure in the country.
The upgraded roads are designed to facilitate smooth access for both citizens and officials, ensuring that the Parliament and the new city is accessible to all.
This development has been met with enthusiasm from the public, who view it as a sign of progress and modernisation.
In urban areas, the narrative is complex. The roads have been under the purview of local authorities that have struggled to maintain them.
However, the Second Republic has stepped in to take over several urban road projects that had stalled due to mismanagement by the opposition-led local authorities.
Taking over urban roads for upgrade following the directive of President Mnangagwa underscores the Government’s commitment to ensuring that urban infrastructure meets the needs of residents.
This proactive approach aims to improve the quality of urban roads, which are vital for daily commutes, emergency services and overall urban mobility.
The Second Republic’s road infrastructure initiatives are part of a broader vision aimed at inclusivity and sustainable development.
President Mnangagwa’s mantra of “leaving no one and no place behind” resonates throughout the Government’s infrastructure strategy.
This philosophy seeks to ensure that every region, no matter how remote, has access to essential services and opportunities.
The Government is dedicated to ensuring that rural areas, often neglected in past development efforts, receive the attention they deserve.
Looking ahead, the Government is set to continue its ambitious infrastructure agenda.
Plans are in place to expand road networks further, including the construction of new routes and the rehabilitation of existing ones.
The focus will not only be on major highways but also on rural roads that serve as lifelines for farming communities.
In addition, the Government is exploring innovative financing options to support these projects, including public-private partnerships.
Such collaborations could provide the necessary resources to accelerate the pace of infrastructure development and improve the overall quality of roads across the country.
As Zimbabweans prepare to celebrate their independence, they do so against a backdrop of major progress in road infrastructure.
The Second Republic’s commitment to transforming the country’s roads is a crucial step toward achieving broader economic and social goals.
While challenges remain – particularly in urban areas – the Government’s proactive approach and clear vision for the future signal a commitment to building a better tomorrow. By continuing to invest in road infrastructure, Zimbabwe is not only paving the way for economic growth but also fostering a sense of national unity and pride.
As Zimbabwe celebrates its achievements, it also looks forward to a future where every road leads to success, inclusivity and sustained development.
Online Reporter