The first 7km section of the Chairman Mao Boulevard, formerly known as Old Mazowe Road, is set to open to traffic today after undergoing a comprehensive upgrade. This stretch of road, running from the Westgate roundabout to Gwebi River Crossing, has been widened, resurfaced, and remarked as part of the project.

This development marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to improve and expand the country’s infrastructure under the Second Republic since 2018. The upgrade of various infrastructure projects, particularly roads in Harare, is being fast-tracked in preparation for the upcoming 44th SADC Summit to be hosted in Zimbabwe.

The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development, in collaboration with Bitumen World, announced the reopening of Old Mazowe Road on June 17, 2024. The road had been closed for reconstruction since March 24, 2024. The improvements aim to enhance the quality and safety of the road, providing a better travel experience for motorists. The first 7km section from Westgate Roundabout up to the Gwebi River Crossing will now be accessible to the public.

While this section is opening to traffic, work on other parts of Chairman Mao Boulevard is still ongoing. The ministry has urged the public to continue supporting and cooperating with ongoing roadworks to ensure their safe completion.

Transport Minister Felix Mhona has emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring that all necessary preparations are made for the successful hosting of the SADC Summit. He indicated that significant progress has been made on major roads and other infrastructure leading to the Parliament and new city, with completion targeted by June 30.

Efforts are also underway to ensure that villas for the summit are ready by July 24. The minister highlighted that work on roads within the greater city and villa construction is progressing steadily, with an average completion rate of around 50-70 percent.

Source: https://www.herald.co.zw/old-mazowe-road-opens-to-the-public-today/