Story by BLESSED NYASHADZASHE JURA
The government is making significant strides in preparing for the 44th Southern African Development Community (SADC) Summit, set to take place in August 2024. Vice President Honourable Gen (Rtd) Dr. C.G.D.N. Chiwenga has provided an encouraging update on the various infrastructure projects aimed at ensuring a successful event.
To facilitate smooth access to the New Parliament Building in Mt Hampden, the government is rehabilitating three main access roads: the Harare-Chirundu Road, Harare-Kanyemba Road, and Old Mazowe Road. These efforts reflect a broader commitment to enhancing the country’s infrastructure and ensuring that key routes are in excellent condition for the summit.
The Harare-Chirundu Road is undergoing extensive improvements, including construction, landscaping, and the installation of street lighting. The work spans from the Main Post Office on Julius Nyerere Street to the intersection of Sam Nujoma Extension and Nemakonde Road (formerly Lomagundi), and continues along Nemakonde Road to the Westgate Traffic Circle. This project aims to create a more efficient and visually appealing route for delegates and visitors.
Similarly, the Harare-Kanyemba Road is being dualized, widened, upgraded, reconstructed, and rehabilitated, with additional street lighting and landscaping. This road work covers the section of Sam Nujoma Extension from Nemakonde Road to the New Parliament Boulevard, past the Henderson Research Institute area, and up to the Mvurwi Turn-Off. These upgrades will significantly improve traffic flow and safety.
The Old Mazowe Road is also benefiting from construction and landscaping efforts. The enhancements stretch from the Westgate Traffic Circle to Mt Hampden, including the Loop Road, New Parliament Building access roads, and the New Parliament Boulevard to the Bindura Road intersection. These improvements will ensure that all routes to the New Parliament Building are well-maintained and accessible.
In addition to these major road projects, the government is rehabilitating 37 roads in the Greater Harare area. This work includes street lighting and landscaping, improving connectivity between the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport, the city, Mt Hampden, and the New Parliament Building. With overall progress at 90%, these projects are on track to be completed by July 30, 2024, well in advance of the summit.
Moreover, the construction of the Museum of African Liberation is underway, adding a significant cultural and historical landmark to the area. Rehabilitation works at the State Pavilion at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport are also expected to be completed by the end of July 2024.
These extensive infrastructure improvements underscore the government’s commitment to hosting a successful and memorable 44th SADC Summit, showcasing Zimbabwe’s readiness and dedication to regional cooperation and development.
