Story by Providence Maraneli
TRAVELLERS using the Gwanda-Maphisa Road have expressed satisfaction with progress on the project, one of several key infrastructure developments underway ahead of the 2026 Independence Day celebrations scheduled to be held in Maphisa.
The 66-kilometre road, which links districts in Matabeleland South, is expected to significantly reduce travel distances and improve connectivity for communities and motorists travelling between Gwanda, Maphisa and surrounding areas.
Passengers and motorists travelling during the festive season, including those returning from South Africa to destinations such as Sunyetsen, Maphisa and St Joseph, said the improvements reflected Government’s focus on inclusive development.
Travellers noted that the road would eliminate the need to use longer routes via Bulawayo, cutting travel time and costs once completed.
“We are stunned by the progress at our road, It shows the seriousness of our government, We want it finished soon,” i
Injivas said.
Motorists said the temporary detours had already eased travel and expressed optimism that the project would be completed within set timelines, adding that improved road conditions were likely to result in reduced transport fares.
“It was difficult for us to go to Maphisa via Bulawayo yet we can just do 66 km, This is a critical road and with the progress we are seeing here we have hope that it will be completed, The detour is actually better now it has made travelling easier, Once it is done the fares will be reduced,” one motorist said.
Construction work on the road has been paused for the Christmas holiday, but contractors are expected to resume operations as they race to meet a March completion deadline.
The Gwanda-Maphisa Road is among priority projects being implemented by Government alongside the Bulawayo-Kezi and Plumtree-Maitengwe roads, as part of preparations for the 2026 Independence Day celebrations in Maphisa.
