Story by Yolanda Moyo
MAJOR road rehabilitation projects are currently underway in Bulawayo as the government moves to improve the city’s road network under the ongoing infrastructure development drive.
From the city centre to residential areas, road rehabilitation is in full swing, bringing a sense of relief and optimism to residents, motorists and commuters.
“We are happy that the roads are finally being fixed. Driving was becoming dangerous, especially during the rainy season,” a motorist said.
“If this pace continues, traffic flow will definitely improve. We just hope the rehabilitation covers all the bad spots in the city,” another added.
“The government and council are doing well, we just hope maintenance continues even after completion,” a motorist noted.
City engineers say council is targeting works in the central business district with plans already being drawn up for feeder roads in the suburbs next year.
“We have completed most of the rehabilitation works along George Silundika. We are at 98 percent. Currently, teams are on Lobengula Street, after which focus will shift to Herbert Chitepo. We have created detours within the CBD to manage traffic flow during this period. Looking ahead, plans for next year will extend these efforts into the residential areas, particularly feeder roads, to ensure the improvements are felt in communities beyond the city centre,” Bulawayo City Council Road Works Department, Engineer Howard Sibanda said.
The government has reaffirmed its commitment to the road rehabilitation drive, with some of the works being implemented under the Emergency Road Rehabilitation Programme (ERRP).
“The progress we have witnessed so far is encouraging. Some of the roads under rehabilitation fall under the ERRP, with most of them at 30 percent complete and we are making sure that resources are channelled towards delivering a lasting solution to Bulawayo’s road challenges,” Bulawayo Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution’s Permanent Secretary Mr Paul Nyoni said.
The rehabilitation exercise is expected to continue into 2026 in line with the Second Republic’s thrust to modernise infrastructure and improve service delivery in urban centres.
