Source: ‘Critical roadworks to continue despite rains’ – herald
Raymond Jaravaza, ray.jaravaza@chronicle.co.zw
THE Government has said that critical road rehabilitation works will not stop despite the onset of the rain season as it commits to ensuring speedy completion of ongoing projects to ensure smooth business logistics and public transportation.
This comes as significant progress is being made in rehabilitating critical roads such as the Bulawayo-Victoria Falls Highways, Beitbridge-Harare-Chirundu Highway, Bulawayo-Nkayi Road and the recent commencement of rehabilitation works of the Bulawayo-Matopos Road to be completed in April 2026 ahead of the Independence Day celebrations to be hosted by Matabeleland South Province.
Government handed over the Bulawayo-Matopos Road upgrade project to Zada Construction Company last month and the route is regarded as a critical corridor for economic growth and trade in the region.
The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure Development announced that the rehabilitation project must be completed by April next year.
Meeting the set deadline is important as the province will for the first time host the Independence Day celebrations to be attended by tens of thousands of people.
Over the years the road has been littered with potholes due to limited resources for routine upgrades and potholes patching.
“The handover of the Matopos Road to Zada Construction Company marks a significant step in the ministry’s strategic ongoing efforts to improve the national road network. The contractor has mobilised and the rehabilitation work is expected to be completed by April 2026,” Transport and Infrastructural Development Permanent Secretary, Engineer Joy Makumbe, said.
“In line with standard Government procurement and transparency protocols, the final project cost is determined through a rigorous tender process.
“We are committed to ensuring value for money. The primary focus at this stage is on the timely commencement and quality execution of the works.”
Eng Makumbe said the rainy season is not expected to negatively impact on the rehabilitation of roads country.
“The rainy season is a key consideration in our national infrastructure planning. While weather conditions can pose challenges, our contractors are expected and prepared to continue with critical works where it is safe and technically feasible to do so,” said Eng Makumbe.
“Modern construction methodologies and contractual provisions account for seasonal variations. During heavy rains, focus may temporarily shift to activities less affected by weather, such as drainage works, culvert installations, material procurement and site preparation.”
While contractors continue working during the rainy season, she said priority will be the safety of both the workforce and the travelling public, as well as the long-term integrity of the rehabilitation works.
Commenting on the progress of the Bulawayo-Victoria Falls, Eng Makumbe said Government is encouraged by the progress on the strategic road, a flagship project that is critical for tourism, trade, and regional connectivity.
“While there is still significant work ahead to complete the entire project, the current pace and quality of work are in line with our expectations.
“We are committed to ensuring this vital artery is transformed into a world-class road that enhances safety and boosts economic activity for the entire region.
“The road was contracted to eight contractors each of 51km lots and they are on site, and the Government has set an ambitious 10-month deadline for the completion of the project,” she said.
“The ministry is observing satisfactory progress in the allocated sections given to each of the contractors.”
Eng Makumbe said the Government’s position on quality of work across all road rehabilitation works around the country is unequivocal and non-negotiable.
“We will not accept anything less than the highest standards as per the signed contracts. Our impression of the rehabilitation works across the country is that the majority of contractors are adhering to these standards and demonstrating a commitment to delivering quality infrastructure,” she said.
The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development has put in place a robust system of continuous monitoring and supervision top ensure that contractors deliver high quality work in all the project.
“This includes regular inspections by qualified engineers who will be resident on the projects being undertaken to ensure compliance with specifications.
“Where any deviations are identified, contractors are immediately directed to rectify the work at their own cost. Our ultimate goal is a durable and reliable road network that serves the people of Zimbabwe for decades to come,” said Eng Makumbe.
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