Story by Fungai Jachi
The long-awaited Chilonga Bridge project is bringing renewed hope to communities in Chiredzi South, with construction now underway on a modern crossing over the crocodile-infested Runde River.
The bridge, which is expected to be completed by October, will connect Chiredzi South to the administrative town of Chiredzi, ending years of dangerous river crossings and improving access to essential services and markets.
For decades, residents have relied on boats to cross the Runde River, often risking their lives, particularly during the rainy season when the area becomes inaccessible.
The new all-weather causeway is expected to improve connectivity, facilitate trade and support economic activity in the district.
Community members welcomed the development, describing it as a milestone for the area.
“We used to risk crossing this river with boats; it was not safe, but we did not have a choice. Now seeing works being done gives us hope,” said one resident.
Another added: “We are happy seeing that finally something is being done at the bridge.”
A third resident said the project would improve access to healthcare.
“Now it will be easier to travel to the hospital even when it rains; we will know that we have a reliable bridge.”
The project has also created employment opportunities for local people.
“The coming of this project has given us employment. We are not only celebrating having a bridge but also employment,” said one worker.
Another employee said: “We are happy to be taking part in the construction works because we are also now feeding our families.”
Wiltacon Contractors supervisor Mr Tozivepi Mazanhi said work is progressing well, with completion targeted for October.
“We have already begun work on this causeway, which is about 400 metres long. We are using reinforced culvert pipes and expect to complete the project by the end of October if we do not face challenges. We will demolish the larger part of the existing causeway to install the pipes before constructing a durable structure.”
The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development has temporarily closed the Chiredzi–Chilonga–Chibwedziwa Road, commonly known as Chilonga Bridge Road, for three months to allow rehabilitation works to proceed.
Government has allocated 30 million ZiG for the initial phase of the project, which forms part of the broader Road Rehabilitation Programme aimed at improving the country’s transport infrastructure.
Once completed, the Chilonga Bridge is expected to end the isolation of Chiredzi South communities, providing a safe, reliable crossing throughout the year while strengthening access to services, trade and economic opportunities.
