Story by Kenias Chivuzhe
THE rural development drive is gathering momentum, with a multi-million-dollar modern complex transforming the outlook of Macheke and creating new economic opportunities for the small town.
The infrastructure project, commissioned recently, marks a significant shift for the once underdeveloped area, as investment under the Second Republic continues to reshape rural communities and stimulate local economies.
Residents who attended the commissioning expressed optimism over the impact of the development, citing employment creation and improved business prospects.
“As a Macheke resident, I am excited that this complex has been opened here. This is local development,” a resident said.
“This is a great initiative as it has created employment for the local communities. I was also employed here,” a community member added.
“Transport operators were avoiding this place because there was no attractive infrastructure. This development has elevated the position of Macheke. We want such developments to continue,” a beneficiary said.
Transport operator and local businessman Dr Leonard Mukumba said the project is part of a broader vision to transform the area into a thriving urban hub.
“In line with President Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa’s mantra that Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo, I thought to invest in this project. I wanted to take Dubai and bring it here. There are lodges, butcheries and shops among others under one roof. I want to turn this mountain into the city of Macheke. I also want to establish a game park here to promote rural tourism. This is in line with President Mnangagwa’s vision to promote rural development, and we want to develop this place into a city,” he said.
Government officials commended the investment, highlighting its role in employment creation and rural transformation.
Minister of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training, Honourable Tino Machakaire, said the initiative aligns with national development priorities.
“This is a great initiative to promote development in Mashonaland East, and we need such developments here. There are youths who have been employed here which is part of employment creation in line with the National Development Strategy 2 being spearheaded by President Dr Mnangagwa to promote rural development. This initiative is a step towards creating big towns,” he said.
Mashonaland East Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Itayi Ndudzo, described the project as a landmark investment.
“These are great works. This is a multi-million-dollar state-of-the-art complex right at the entrance into Mashonaland East province. Dr Mukumba, you made the right choice to invest in Mashonaland East province,” he said.
The development comes as Government accelerates infrastructure growth through the devolution programme, which is increasingly attracting private sector investment and driving rural industrialisation across the country.
