Story by Panashe Nagoli
HARARE is set for a major transformation of its road network, with nine additional interchanges earmarked for construction as Government intensifies infrastructure modernisation under the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2).
The development comes as the country continues to roll out large-scale transport upgrades, following the completion of the Trabablas Interchange and ongoing works on the Mabvuku Interchange.
The Infrastructure Development and Housing Pillar under NDS2 places infrastructure at the centre of economic growth, with a focus on strengthening linkages across key productive sectors.
Work has already commenced on one of the nine planned interchanges at the intersection of Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Road and Harare Drive.
Deputy Director of Construction in the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development, Engineer Virginia Mawere, said the programme forms part of broader efforts to improve mobility and connectivity within the capital.
“This project involves the construction of nine interchanges across Harare, the Harare Drive-Airport Road missing link, as well as the upgrading of various roads leading to the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport,” she said.
Contractor Makomo Engineering said the current phase of the project is expected to take approximately 36 months to complete.
“This current interchange covers a 13-kilometre radius and should be completed by November, while the entire project is expected to take about 36 months,” said Mr Zou.
Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, Honourable Felix Mhona, said Government has adopted alternative funding models to ease pressure on the fiscus.
“One of the biggest hindrances to infrastructure development is overreliance on the fiscus. We have therefore implemented various funding modalities being used on this project, which will ease the burden on taxpayers,” he said.
Once completed, the project is expected to improve traffic flow and connectivity to and from the upgraded Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport, enhancing its role as a strategic economic gateway for Zimbabwe.
