Story by Mercy Bofu-Matinha
THE upgrading of the Harare-Masvingo-Beitbridge Road has entered its final stage, with 497 kilometres now open to traffic and only 83 kilometres left to complete the project.
The official opening of another five-kilometre stretch in Masvingo this Tuesday marked steady progress on the flagship development, which is expected to be completed by December this year.
Road users expressed gratitude to the government for prioritising the modernisation of the country’s road network, noting the economic benefits of the project.
“As road users, we want to appreciate the work that our government is doing in terms of improving our road network. Since the coming in of the Second Republic, many of our roads have been rehabilitated, including this critical one. This road is always busy and plays a key role in facilitating trade regionally and locally,” said one motorist.
Another added, “Now we are confident that this road will be completed soon because we are seeing contractors on the ground up to Mwenezi. The government is prioritising the project to ensure the smooth flow of traffic. The works in Masvingo CBD, including new bridges and an interchange, are commendable.”
Engineer Malvern Munemo of Masimba Holdings, one of the five contractors on the project, said major works are on course.
“We have had the opportunity to work on five phases of this project. So far, we have completed and handed over phases 1 and 3A. Currently, we are working on phases 3B and 4, which we hope to complete by the end of November this year. What will remain are the works in the town section, including a bypass, the new Chevron Bridge, and a trumpet interchange,” he said.
Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development, Mr Exavier Chisoko, said infrastructure development remains key in achieving Vision 2030.
“Our national vision is centred on inclusive growth, and the bedrock of that growth is appropriate and efficient infrastructure. The Harare-Masvingo-Beitbridge Road project is a national strategic imperative that enhances connectivity, reduces travel time, and most importantly saves lives,” he said.
Permanent Secretary for Masvingo Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Dr Addmore Pazvakavambwa, said the project is a catalyst for economic transformation.
“The 5 km section being opened today, and the wider project, will catalyse economic activity across the province through providing reliable transport links while unlocking potential in sectors such as agriculture and tourism,” he said.
Parliamentary Portfolio Committee member on Transport and Infrastructural Development, Hon Ophias Murambiwa, expressed satisfaction with the progress.
“This road is one of the most important highways in our country as it serves as a major route to Beitbridge, gateway to South Africa and the wider SADC region,” he said.
The Harare-Masvingo-Beitbridge Highway is a vital economic artery linking Zimbabwe to regional markets.
Its near completion not only promises safer and faster travel but also strengthens trade, tourism, and national development in line with Vision 2030.
