President Emmerson Mnangagwa has addressed recent criticisms suggesting that the ongoing infrastructure developments in Harare are merely an attempt to impress delegates ahead of the 44th SADC Summit in August 2024, where he will assume the Chairmanship of the regional body. These allegations have been spread by certain media outlets and opposition forces. President Mnangagwa has strongly refuted these claims, stating that the infrastructure projects are part of Zimbabwe’s broader modernization initiative aimed at achieving Vision 2030.
Speaking at the ZANU-PF National Consultative Assembly, President Mnangagwa emphasized that the ongoing upgrades, including roads, housing in Mt Hampden, and hotel renovations, are not just for the upcoming SADC Summit but are vital steps towards fulfilling pillar number 3 of the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS 1), which focuses on infrastructure and utilities.
Rainbow Hotels — Experience Luxury Across Zimbabwe
Rainbow Hotels continues to redefine hospitality standards in Zimbabwe, offering world-class accommodation, fine dining, and modern conference facilities in Harare, Bulawayo, and Victoria Falls.
Whether for business or leisure, Rainbow Hotels delivers unmatched comfort, exceptional service, and a truly premium guest experience tailored to modern travellers.
Book NowUnder the Second Republic, significant strides have been made in both rural and urban infrastructure development. This includes advancements in dam construction, road networks, and power generation facilities. The President reiterated his commitment to ensuring that no region is left behind in the national development agenda, embodying the philosophy of “leaving no one and no place behind.”
The government has also shown a strong commitment to modernizing social services. New health centers and schools are being built under the devolution agenda, and vital registration services, such as national identity cards, birth and death certificates, and passports, have been decentralized for easier access. These efforts align with pillar number 2 of NDS 1, which focuses on human capital development and social services.
Local expertise and educational institutions have played a crucial role in these infrastructure projects. The construction of the New City, the venue for the upcoming SADC Summit, showcases the capability and self-reliance of local contractors, achieved without external funding. This reflects President Mnangagwa’s philosophy, “Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo” (a country is built by its own people), emphasizing self-reliance and the importance of local contributions to national development.
The role of Heritage-Based Education 5.0 in equipping graduates with skills beneficial to community and economic growth was also highlighted. Innovation hubs and industrial parks are part of efforts to bolster manufacturing and industry, aligning with NDS 1’s focus on rural industrialization.
The Second Republic continues to prioritize infrastructure development as a key strategy for economic advancement and inclusive growth. President Mnangagwa stressed that without robust infrastructure, economic growth remains unattainable. He urged Zimbabweans to support the ongoing developments as the nation strives to achieve Vision 2030.
