Story by Mercy Bofu-Matinha
PROGRESS continues on the rehabilitation and resurfacing of the Harare-Masvingo-Beitbridge road, with only 61 km left to complete the flagship project.
More sections of the highway are now open to traffic, with the latest seven-kilometre stretch around the Rutenga area complete, marking another milestone in the ongoing road rehabilitation project.
Motorists and the business community applauded the ongoing roadworks, noting that the smooth drive on the completed stretches is a clear sign of progress.
“We are happy with the work that the government is doing. This stretch had taken so long to be completed, and it is so encouraging. Hence, we are looking forward to a smooth flow of traffic,” Innocent Chigarwi said.
“As a farmer, I am happy with the developments happening on this road. It means we will be able to move our produce smoothly and fresh to the market. We thank the Second Republic for this development,” beneficiary Matongo noted.
“The development of any country is measured by its road network, and we are happy with what the Second Republic is doing by prioritising road network, not only major roads but also roads that connect small towns and growth points,” another beneficiary, Rukudzo Masimbe added.
One of the five contractors, Exodus and Company, which completed the 7km stretch, said they are targeting to complete works under the fourth phase by December this year.
“We are now in the fourth phase of this project, and we have handed over 80 km to our client, which is the government. Today, we have completed a seven kilometre stretch, and soon we will complete another three kilometre. We are looking forward to completing our work by December, and we thank the government for supporting us,” Exodus and Company Site Engineer, Ginny Muchenje said.
The government is encouraged by the work that contractors are doing, with 529 km already complete and only 61km outstanding.
“As we unveil this newly rehabilitated section, we are taking a tangible step toward enhancing connectivity, accessibility, and trade within the North-South corridor for our people. This road will serve as a vital artery, facilitating trade, improving access to essential services, and fostering economic growth. It will empower our local businesses and create opportunities for countless families, aligning perfectly with our broader vision for a prosperous future,” Masvingo Office of the President and Cabinet, Deputy Director, Infrastructure Planning and Development, Mr Clorence Matewe noted.
“We are happy with the work that our engineers are doing, and all of them are on site working, including working on the Masvingo urban bypasses and climbing lanes around the Ngundu area,” Masvingo Provincial Roads Engineer, Augustine Chigwereve added.
With progress continuing at this pace, the government remains confident that the entire highway will be completed by year-end, a development expected to enhance trade, ease travel, and strengthen regional integration.
