Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, Hon. F.T. Mhona, convened a comprehensive meeting with Provincial Road Engineers and media representatives yesterday, providing updates on critical road infrastructure projects and emphasizing the government’s commitment to transparency and progress.
Hon. Mhona outlined ongoing infrastructure initiatives aimed at propelling the country towards an upper-middle-income economy.
A key focus of the discussion was the rehabilitation of the vital Beitbridge-Bulawayo-Victoria Falls highway. Responding to media inquiries, Hon. Mhona revealed that a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) framework is being structured to facilitate the road’s comprehensive overhaul. He acknowledged the public’s concerns regarding the road’s current state and assured that interim measures are underway to improve trafficability while the PPP arrangement undergoes necessary feasibility studies and preliminary assessments. The Minister appealed for public patience, stating that the estimated timeframe for the complete rehabilitation of this stretch is 36 months.
Further addressing regional road developments, Hon. Mhona announced that work has commenced on the Bulawayo-Nkayi Road, with the contractor now on-site and focusing on the initial 20-kilometer phase. Additionally, road rehabilitation works are actively underway on a 200-kilometre stretch of the Bulawayo-Victoria Falls Highway, which has suffered significant deterioration. Funds have been allocated for the entire road’s reconstruction, projected for completion within 36 months.
Urgent repairs are also being conducted on severely damaged sections of the Bulawayo-Victoria Falls Highway. The Department of Roads, in partnership with Bitumen World, is deploying teams to strategic locations, including Hwange, Halfway, and Insuza, to expedite progress.
Hon. Mhona highlighted the substantial financial investment required for infrastructure rehabilitation, noting the global average cost of US$1 million per kilometre for road reconstruction. He reiterated the government’s dedication to improving the nation’s road network, contributing to economic growth and enhanced connectivity.
