Story by Aifheli Mudau
BEITBRIDGE is witnessing a transformative phase of urban development, with the expansion of its Central Business District (CBD) emerging as a hallmark of infrastructure-led growth under the Second Republic’s modernisation drive.
The expansion follows major public infrastructure upgrades, including the modernisation of the Beitbridge Border Post, improvements to road networks and the implementation of housing projects, which have collectively enhanced the town’s accessibility and investment appeal.
Senior lecturer in the department of Geomatics and Surveying at Gwanda State University, Dr Nicholas Muleya, said the CBD expansion presents a timely opportunity for investors while allowing the town to modernise its outlook.
“This a very good opportunity for investors to come in and at the same time, the Beitbridge town should take this opportunity to improve the Outlook of the town, at the same time bringing in new designs for the town,” Dr Muleya said.
Business leaders have also welcomed the development, citing new opportunities for growth and innovation.
Beitbridge Business Expo Chairperson, Dr Annah Muleya, said the expansion is expected to stimulate entrepreneurship and attract investment into new business ventures.
“The expansion means new opportunities for us businesses, especially for those who want to go into real estate and new business ventures. It is also an opportunity for new entrepreneurs to come into the fold as they bring new ideas, innovation leading to Business Growth,” Dr Annah Muleya noted.
Beitbridge Municipality Town Clerk, Mr Loud Ramakgapola, said the local authority is capitalising on improved infrastructure to drive the CBD expansion.
“We are taking advantage of a well-built highway and the accessibility of our town to expand our Central Business District. We really believe that by the end of 2026, Beitbridge town will be having a totally new look because this is the time to bring modernity to our town. Whoever is going to put up the businesses here in town is really assured of good takers,” Mr Ramakgapola said.
Mr Ramakgapola added that the town offers strong prospects for investors, with businesses assured of a ready market.
The CBD expansion comes at a time when the Second Republic has set the pace for investment in Beitbridge through the modernisation of the border post and the rollout of key infrastructure projects, including a civil servants’ housing scheme.
