Story by Tapiwa Machemedze
GOVERNMENT says it remains committed to inclusive rural infrastructure development, with communities in Guruve, Mashonaland Central Province, already reaping the benefits following the commissioning of the Mwembezi Causeway in Chimanga Village.
The project, delivered under the Second Republic’s high-impact development agenda, is expected to ease transport challenges, improve access to essential services and enhance economic activity in the area.
The commissioning ceremony was marked by celebrations from residents, who described the development as life-changing, coming 46 years after independence.
Village health worker, Bibiana Chafesuka, said the bridge will significantly improve emergency response services.
“As a health worker, I am happy seeing the bridge. Even reports that we could not respond because we would just be stuck and idle, meaning deaths would occur… So, we are happy with our MP and our president,” she said.
Residents highlighted the dangers and inconvenience previously caused by flooding along the river.
“The major challenge we faced when the river was full was when you wanted to go to Guruve, and it was full. We could go back to Berejena and go via Mudhindo, which is a distance of 15 kilometres,” said Mr Henry Mutero Nyakapupu.
Another resident, Mr Romeo Chimanga, said the crossing had claimed lives and disrupted movement.
“The problems we faced on the bridge were drowning of people and drowning of livestock. We could not cross to go to areas like Guruve and Harare when the river was full. Some people would be carried on back, but it is difficult for a married woman to be carried on the back of another man,” he said.
Mashonaland Central Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Christopher Magomo, said the project reflects Government’s inclusive development thrust.
“The project… is a project we tapped from His Excellency’s mantra that no place or person should be left behind. Looking at the importance of the bridge, children would fail to go to school when the river was full, business would fail… We thank RIDA and the community that helped with stones and labour,” he said.
The Mwembezi Causeway was constructed by the Rural Infrastructure Development Authority (RIDA), with support from the local community and the area legislator.
RIDA Provincial Roads Manager, Mr Emmanuel Chisanduro, said the project was completed within two years.
“We started the project in July 2024 and finished in March 2026. We improved the structure to a causeway with nine openings, and it is 75 metres long. It cost US$182 009,” he said.
Authorities noted that the project is part of a wider road construction and rehabilitation programme covering a 2 400-kilometre network across Mashonaland Central Province.
With improved connectivity, officials say the bridge will enhance access to schools, health facilities and markets, while opening up new economic opportunities for surrounding communities.
