Zimbabwe’s infrastructure development agenda is gaining momentum, with the government adopting public-private partnerships (PPPs) to accelerate major projects, including road networks and dam construction.
Finance, Economic Development, and Investment Promotion Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube confirmed that US$2.5 million has been allocated to fast-track the construction of Lake Gwayi-Shangani, a project set to boost water supply for Bulawayo and surrounding areas.
The dam, which was initially conceptualized in 1912 but stalled for decades, has seen renewed progress under the Second Republic, with 39 meters of the planned 72-meter dam wall completed. While work slowed last year due to the focus on a 10-megawatt hydroelectric project, efforts have now resumed. Designed by ZINWA and constructed by China Water and Electric Corporation, the dam will hold 650 million cubic meters of water, supporting agriculture and food security.
Professor Ncube emphasized that infrastructure remains a top priority, with roads receiving significant investment through PPPs to ease the burden on the national budget. The Harare-Nyamapanda Road has been concessioned to a private sector investor under a 25-year agreement, allowing the company to recover costs through toll fees. Similarly, the Beitbridge-Bulawayo-Victoria Falls Road will undergo modernization through a concession model, with interim repairs targeting the worst sections, particularly in Hwange.
Other key water projects include the Glass Block Dam in Bulawayo, which is being advanced through a PPP framework, and the ongoing work on Kunzvi Dam to supply Harare with water. Professor Ncube underscored that infrastructure development is crucial for economic growth, and the government remains committed to sustaining momentum despite resource constraints.
Meanwhile, Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona confirmed that the Mbudzi Interchange in Harare, set to be renamed Trabablas Interchange, is on track for completion by May 31. The US$88 million project, featuring 15 bridges, is expected to ease congestion and improve traffic flow at the intersection of Simon Mazorodze, Chitungwiza, and High Glen Roads.
The Harare-Beitbridge Highway, with 88 kilometers remaining, is progressing well, with contractors mobilized to complete the final phase this year, including critical mini-interchanges and 15 bridges. Minister Mhona also highlighted ongoing work on the Harare-Chirundu Road, with financial arrangements being finalized to rehabilitate the 352-kilometer route and upgrade Chirundu Border Post.
In Mutare, plans are underway for the Christmas Pass bypass, a 26-kilometer alternative route to ease congestion and reduce accidents. Leengate (Private) Limited has been contracted for the project, which will divert heavy traffic away from the dangerous stretch leading to Forbes Border Post.
Professor Ncube called for strict quality control in road construction, emphasizing that contractors must deliver durable roads to avoid costly rework. This follows instances where companies, such as Fossil Contracting, have been ordered to redo roads that deteriorated prematurely.
Despite financial challenges, Zimbabwe’s infrastructure drive remains on c
ourse, reinforcing the government’s commitment to national development and the realization of Vision 2030.
