Chronicle Editor
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]
THE Government has guaranteed its full support for the Old Gwanda Road construction, a move officials say will spur rural industrialisation and economic growth in Matabeleland South. Speaking at a traditional ceremony in Umzingwane District yesterday to signal the commencement of works, Vice-President Kembo Mohadi said Government fully supports such initiatives meant to improve the country’s road network.
The Old Gwanda Road project is being spearheaded by Zwane Enterprises Pvt Ltd on a Build, Operate and Transfer (BOT) arrangement and work is expected to start soon. The traditional thanksgiving ritual, concluding a three-day ancestral observance conducted privately by spirit mediums, saw the symbolic pouring of traditional brew onto the ground from a calabash, signifying the ancestors’ blessing for the project.
Construction will start soon after a ground-breaking ceremony expected to be presided over by President Mnangagwa next month.
“The Old Gwanda Road project exemplifies the Government’s commitment and capability to work in partnership with the private sector to improve infrastructure such as roads. This project, a testament to Government/private sector collaboration, follows a series of transformative infrastructure projects being implemented by the Second Republic across the country.
“The construction of a modern Old Gwanda Road represents a significant milestone for Matabeleland South Province, promising socio-economic development for its people and the country as a whole,” said Vice-President Mohadi.
Vice-President Mohadi stressed the Second Republic’s expectation for companies and agencies operating within communities to actively engage with those communities, understanding their needs, expectations, and concerns. He said that the Old Gwanda Road project should prioritise community involvement in the construction process while also creating opportunities for downstream industries.
Cde Mohadi highlighted the significance of the traditional ceremony as a reminder of the importance of preserving the country’s cultural heritage.
“We are here to express our gratitude to the ancestors who have paved the way for the construction of the Old Gwanda Road. The cultural rite that preceded this ceremony serves as a powerful reminder of our connection to our roots, honouring our past and paying homage to those who came before us.
“This rite is a testament to our steadfast commitment to preserving our traditions and honouring our ancestors. It is through these traditions and customs that we demonstrate our respect and appreciation for their sacrifices and wisdom,” he said.
Vice-President Mohadi commended the various stakeholders who have supported the project.
Minister of State for Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Dr Evelyn Ndlovu, stated that the project aligns with Vision 2030 and will bring much-needed development to the province. She highlighted the crucial role of the Old Gwanda
Road in connecting Bulawayo, a major market for Matabeleland region.
“Today, we gather not only to conduct a traditional ceremony but also to lay the foundation for progress, unity, and prosperity for our province and nation. This project aligns perfectly with President Dr ED Mnangagwa’s Vision 2030, which ensures that no one and no place is left behind.
“It is a shining example of what we can achieve when the Government, private sector, and communities work together. To the team at Zwane Enterprises, your investment of time, resources and faith in this province has not gone unnoticed,” said Dr Ndlovu.
She said that the road will generate new opportunities for communities, including jobs, improved access to markets and enhanced services delivery marking a significant step towards achieving an upper-middle-income society by 2030.
Zwane Enterprise’s Chief Executive Officer, Engineer Bekithemba Mbambo, expressed his gratitude to the community and traditional leadership for their acceptance of the project. He acknowledged the significance of the traditional ceremony in providing the project with the necessary blessing and approval. Engineer Mbambo also thanked the various stakeholders and the Government for supporting the initiative.
Chief Mathe, in a speech read on his behalf by his constituency aide, Mr Cephas Moyo, commended Zwane Enterprises for respecting traditional processes, which are an integral part of the community’s cultural beliefs. Umzingwane Constituency Member of Parliament, Brigadier-General (Rtd) Levi Mayihlome, said six constituencies will directly benefit from the road whose completion will bring development to the area.–@DubeMatutu
Online Reporter