Online Reporter
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, Matabeleland South Bureau
AN estimated US$6 million is required to complete the Gwanda-Maphisa Road, with the Government committing to ensure timeous release of funds so that the project meets its year-end completion target.
The road project is among major transport infrastructure rehabilitation works being carried out under the Second Republic’s broader development agenda and has gained renewed momentum following Cabinet’s decision to host the 2026 Independence Day celebrations at Maphisa Open Grounds in Matobo District.
The route links key economic centres in Matabeleland South, including Arda Antelope, Makwe Irrigation Scheme, Maitengwe and the Plumtree border posts, while also improving access to the Matobo National Park.
Upon completion, the road is expected to reduce travel time between Gwanda and surrounding districts, particularly Matobo District, while opening economic opportunities in mining, agriculture and tourism.
Speaking after touring the road last week, Special Advisor to the President on Monitoring Implementation of Government Programmes and Projects Dr Joram Gumbo said funding remains critical to accelerating progress.
“I’m here to inspect progress on various infrastructure development projects, among them the Gwanda-Maphisa Road. This project started in 2021 and now that we have a very important event coming up and many people will be using this road, I saw it prudent for me to visit the site,” he said.
“I will be able to identify gaps and challenges, which are hindering the progress of this road so that they can be addressed and works can progress at a steady rate.”
Dr Gumbo said road construction remains central to the attainment of Vision 2030 and the National Development Strategy 2.
He said although the project will not meet the April 18 target linked to Independence preparations, the focus is now on ensuring completion before year-end.
“It’s concerning that since 2021, less than half of the road has been surfaced due to various reasons. That’s why I’m here today as we want to fix this anomaly and ensure that everything gets back on track,” he said.
“If it means working 24 hours, then so be it, but as Government, we will ensure funds are released timeously so that we can speed up this project.”
Dr Gumbo said several contractors are already on site, demonstrating the Government’s determination to maintain momentum.
He added that the road also carries social and historical importance as it provides access to the homestead of late Vice-President, Joshua Nkomo.
“It also leads to the homestead of the late Vice-President Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo, which shows how crucial this road is,” said Dr Gumbo.
Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Matabeleland South Albert Nguluvhe said completion of the road will unlock economic opportunities in the province.
“We realise and appreciate that there is a lot that goes into constructing a road. We might not be where we wanted to be by this time in constructing the Gwanda-Maphisa Road, but we see that some work is being done. The Government has shown commitment to completing this road and we are grateful for that,” he said.
Matabeleland South provincial roads engineer Mangisi Nkomo said six contractors are now fully deployed on the project.
“The project has been stalled by delays in the release of funds and at some point, contractors were leaving. We now have six contractors on the ground and if we could get US$6 million, it can be enough to complete the project,” he said.
Eng Nkomo said in the meantime, maintenance works will continue, to ensure the road remains trafficable ahead of the national celebration. – @DubeMatutu
