Story by Josephine Mugiyo, Diplomatic Correspondent
ZIMBABWE’S infrastructure development drive has maintained momentum, with road construction projects continuing across the country during the festive season, underscoring Government’s commitment to accelerating economic transformation.
One of the major projects underway is the Harare-Kanyemba Road, where construction activities have continued despite the Christmas break. The project forms part of a broader national infrastructure programme implemented under the Second Republic.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa recently highlighted progress in infrastructure development as one of the key achievements recorded in 2025, alongside gains in other sectors of the economy.
In his Unity Day message, the President said the National Development Strategy One (NDS1), which concludes this year, had delivered tangible results, while National Development Strategy Two (NDS2) would focus on industrialisation, value addition and inclusive growth.
“As we reflect on the journey we have travelled since the signing of the Unity Accord, we continue to celebrate the countless victories we have scored as a nation. The National Development Strategy 1, which concludes this year, has delivered. Going forward, NDS 2 has been launched, with our focus shifting to industrialisation, value addition and inclusive growth. We are committed to accelerating the transformation of our economy, creating jobs and improving the quality of life of our people,” he said.
Construction workers on the Harare–Kanyemba project said they had continued working during the holidays to meet set targets, noting that the projects had created much-needed employment opportunities.
“We have targets to meet, so we have had to work throughout the holiday season. We are glad that under President Mnangagwa there are many ongoing projects which are assisting us to be gainfully employed,” one construction worker said.
Resident Engineer Collin Cosmas said progress had been made on the project, with 40 kilometres of road already completed.
He said the current phase of construction covers the section from Lomagundi to Blue Ridge, adding that while rainfall had caused some delays, contractors were working to meet year-end targets.
“We have a target that we have to meet before the year ends. We have been disturbed by the rains, but it is important that we meet this target. We started from Lomagundi to Blue Ridge, where we are currently working,” he said.
The Government has prioritised the participation of local companies in major infrastructure projects, a policy that has also created employment opportunities for graduates from local tertiary institutions.
The Harare-Kanyemba Road, which stretches over 365 kilometres, involves the upgrading and widening of roads and bridges. Construction began in 2024 and is expected to be completed by 2029.
