Story by Providence Maraneli
GOVERNMENT departments are accelerating infrastructure works in Maphisa, Matabeleland South, as Zimbabwe prepares to mark Independence Day on 18 April, with the town set to host this year’s national celebrations.
With only weeks remaining, focus has shifted to finalising upgrades at the main stadium and completing legacy projects, including the Isizinda Culture Centre.
Site Engineer Shawn Mukwamba said critical works are now running around the clock, with floodlights being installed to enable 24-hour operations.
“We are done with the turf; we have installed pipes that will take water from the stadium, outstanding. Works are now on the terraces, which we have started with the time left. We are putting flood lights to ensure that we work at night so that we meet our deadline,” said Engineer Mukwamba.
Beyond the stadium, construction is underway at the Isizinda Culture Centre, which is expected to showcase the region’s heritage.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Sport, Arts, Recreation and Culture, Mr Nicholas Moyo, expressed satisfaction with progress at the facility.
“I am so happy with the progress at this culture centre, this culture centre will showcase a culture of the people here, it will depict an original Ndebele homestead,” said Mr Moyo.
Residents have welcomed the developments, citing visible infrastructure improvements and anticipated economic benefits from hosting the national event.
“We are so happy and grateful that our area will host this year’s Independence. We have already seen massive development. Our area now has a stadium with loan. It is good for business because a lot of people will be coming. We are happy that our schools have been developed,” said one resident.
Authorities say the preparations extend beyond the commemorations themselves, forming part of broader legacy projects in Matabeleland South Province. These include the Filabusi Registry, the Gwanda–Maphisa Road, the Bulawayo–Kezi Road, the Plumtree–Maitengwe Road, and the construction of 40 science laboratories across the province.
The projects are expected to leave lasting infrastructure gains in the province long after the Independence Day celebrations conclude.
