Story by Mercy Bofu-Matinha
MASVINGO Province has recorded notable development gains in 2025, with communities benefiting from infrastructure development, agricultural growth, investment inflows, social protection programmes and improved service delivery in line with the Second Republic’s national development agenda.
As the year draws to a close, the province witnessed sustained progress in road rehabilitation and upgrading, particularly along the Harare-Masvingo Highway and key feeder roads linking growth points, irrigation schemes and farming communities. The improved road network has enhanced access to markets and public services while stimulating local economic activity.
Masvingo businessman, Mr Junior Marima said the infrastructure developments have transformed the outlook of the city.
“This year, we saw our roads being upgraded, especially the major roads linking Harare, Masvingo and Beitbridge. We are excited by the developments, which have given our city a new look, particularly the ongoing construction of a mini interchange in Masvingo, which we fondly refer to as our mini Trabablas,” Mr Marima said.
Councillor Simbarashe Shonhiwa noted that improved road infrastructure has enhanced access to essential services across communities.
“The upgrading of roads in our communities has improved access to social services. As you are aware, good road infrastructure is a clear indicator of development,” he said.
Agriculture remained the backbone of livelihoods in the province, with farmers benefiting from climate-smart agriculture initiatives, expanded irrigation development, village business units and livestock support programmes. Masvingo maintained its position as the leading province in cattle production, closing the year with nearly 1.1 million head of cattle.
Agritex Provincial Director Mr Caleb Mahoya said uptake of Pfumvudza/Intwasa had improved significantly.
“As a province, we are pleased that Pfumvudza uptake improved to over 50 percent this year, with nearly two million plots established,” Mr Mahoya said.
“In terms of irrigation development, new schemes such as Bwanya and Gororo were established, while several others were rehabilitated. Farmers are now irrigating crops, engaging in horticulture, cash crop production and livestock farming. Our cattle herd continues to grow under livestock support programmes, and we are targeting further growth beyond the current 1.1 million.”
Chivi North legislator Honourable Godfrey Mukungunugwa highlighted improved livelihoods in traditionally dry areas.
“In Chivi, an area known for low rainfall, several village business units have been established, enabling communities to grow crops throughout the year and significantly improve livelihoods,” he said.
Investment momentum remained strong, with 17 major projects valued at over US$114 million facilitated during the year, creating employment opportunities across the province. Flagship investments include the Bikita Minerals Caesium Processing Plant, the DTZ Nuanetsi irrigated sugarcane and citrus project, the five-megawatt Great Zimbabwe Hydropower Project and the establishment of new irrigation schemes.
Masvingo Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Honourable Ezra Chadzamira said the province recorded resilient economic growth.
“According to GDP growth estimates from our Department of Economic Affairs and Investment, the province recorded a resilient recovery, with year-end GDP growth estimated at 5.78 percent. During the year, government facilitated 17 major investments valued at approximately US$114.5 million, creating significant employment opportunities,” Honourable Ezra Chadzamira said.
In line with the national devolution agenda, devolution funds played a critical role in the construction and refurbishment of clinics, schools, boreholes, dip tanks and other social infrastructure, with more than 200 projects completed across the province.
“As a province, we have completed over 200 devolution-funded projects, including the construction of clinics, schools, bridges and other social amenities. Local authorities have also been capacitated through the acquisition of capital equipment, which has enhanced service delivery,” said Chief Secretary for the Office of the President and Cabinet, Dr Addmore Pazvakavambwa.
The province also intensified youth and women empowerment initiatives, vocational training programmes and support for small-to-medium enterprises. Efforts to combat drug and substance abuse saw the operationalisation of a rehabilitation centre at Clipsham, while anti-smuggling operations resulted in the recovery of illicit goods and cash worth millions of dollars.
Looking ahead to 2026, Masvingo Province will prioritise irrigation development and energy security using water from Tugwi Mukosi Dam, completion of major road projects, expansion of the Lowveld greenbelt, and continued development of irrigation and grain storage infrastructure as it consolidates gains towards Vision 2030.
