Story by Lisa Masuku-Kurira
GOVERNMENT has reaffirmed its commitment to closely monitoring infrastructure development projects to ensure implementation remains on schedule and aligned with national development priorities.
Stakeholders in the infrastructure sector convened in Bulawayo on Friday for a mid-term strategic review workshop to assess progress on key projects being implemented under the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2).
The review provided a platform for state entities and industry players to evaluate achievements, identify challenges and strengthen coordination on critical infrastructure programmes.
Airports Company of Zimbabwe Chief Executive Officer, Mr Tawanda Gusha, said work is underway to improve energy sustainability at airports through the installation of solar power systems.
“What we have done so far is to ensure that we put solar power plants at our airports. We have started working on the first airport. We are starting with the RGM Airport. Then the contractor will move on to Hwange National Park Airport,” he said.
Zimbabwe National Road Administration Chief Executive Officer, Mr Nkosinathi Ncube said significant resources have been channelled towards road rehabilitation projects being implemented by local authorities.
“From January to date, we have disbursed funds equivalent to US$134 million for road projects that are being implemented by local authorities. Our job is to fund projects, so that is something we believe is making the country progress in line with NDS2,” he said.
Industry leaders at the workshop underscored the importance of infrastructure as a catalyst for economic growth and national development.
“Infrastructure is part of the facilitation process for economic growth. We ourselves are a key player in infrastructure,” National Handling Services Chief Executive Officer, Mr Philip Rambakudzibwa said.
“If you look at the ecosystem of road safety, infrastructure and mobility fall under Pillar Two,” Acting Managing Director of the Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe, Dr Clifford Gobo said.
Deputy Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, Honourable Joshua Sacco said regular reviews are essential to ensure projects remain on course and deliver the intended economic benefits.
“We have a lot of flagship projects across the country, so we must meet and see where we are doing well and where we might need to improve. This helps us monitor progress in real time rather than having to review at the end of the year. Infrastructure is the enabler for economic development. Once you upgrade roads and rail, you improve trade,” he said.
The workshop highlighted the critical role of parastatals and private-sector players in delivering infrastructure that supports economic transformation, trade and national development.
