Story by Tichaona Kurewa
THE rehabilitation of the Bulawayo–Victoria Falls Road is progressing steadily, with contractors accelerating works on various sections of the strategic highway to meet the 2026 completion target.
Eight contractors are currently undertaking reconstruction works along the corridor, one of the country’s most important transport routes.
Asphalt Products, which is responsible for the Cross Dete section, has advanced to priming works after completing key preparatory stages.
“Asphalt Products is currently working on a 16-kilometre stretch. To date, all 16 kilometres have been completed in terms of benching and sub-basing. Regarding Base One, which is the top base, 11 kilometres have been stabilised.
“Currently, we are carrying out priming works and have covered 3.8 kilometres, with a target of reaching 10 kilometres. Overall, along the Bulawayo–Victoria Falls Road, we have opened 59.9 kilometres,” Provincial Roads Engineer for Matabeleland North, Engineer Xolani Ncube, said.
Communities in Hwange say the upgraded highway is expected to stimulate economic activity, improve safety and lower transport costs.
“The completion of the road will attract more traffic, including tourists. This will revive various economic activities along the highway, such as vending and other business opportunities,” a community member said.
Another resident welcomed the project’s potential to improve road safety.
“We are grateful for the work being done to upgrade this road because it will help reduce accidents along the highway,” the resident said.
Others said the rehabilitation project could ease transport costs and improve accessibility.
“The completion of the road will result in reduced transport costs. Bus fares are currently high, but we are hopeful that they will decrease once the project is completed,” a local member said.
“The completion of the road will ensure safer travel for everyone, including pregnant women. It is a welcome development for all of us,” another local member said.
The Bulawayo–Victoria Falls Road forms part of the North–South Corridor, a key regional transport link connecting South Africa through the Beitbridge Border Post to Zambia, Namibia and Botswana. Its rehabilitation is expected to enhance trade, tourism and regional connectivity.
