The Zimbabwe National Road Administration (ZINARA) has fully repaid its US$206 million loan from the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA).
ZINARA Board Chairperson, Dr George Manyaya, confirmed the settlement, yesterday, saying the debt had financed the reconstruction of the strategic Plumtree–Bulawayo–Harare–Mutare highway.
“ZINARA has fully settled its US$206 million debt owed to the Development Bank of Southern Africa,” Dr Manyaya said.
The repayment brings closure to a major financial obligation associated with the rehabilitation of one of the country’s key transport corridors, which connects major urban centres and supports the movement of goods and people.
“The settlement of this loan marks an important step in addressing legacy external debt obligations linked to critical national infrastructure,” Dr Manyaya said.
The Plumtree–Bulawayo–Harare–Mutare highway is a strategic route for domestic commerce and regional trade, linking communities, business centres and transport networks. Its reconstruction was intended to improve road conditions and strengthen connectivity along a major economic artery.
“Completing the repayment demonstrates the importance of managing our financial obligations while safeguarding the country’s capacity to pursue future infrastructure development,” Dr Manyaya said.
Dr Manyaya added that the clearing of outstanding obligations can support renewed engagement with regional and international financial institutions, although future funding will depend on lenders’ assessments and agreed terms.
“This development creates a positive foundation for continued engagement with development finance institutions as the country works towards securing resources for its infrastructure priorities,” Dr Manyaya said.
ZINARA plays a central role in mobilising and administering resources for road maintenance, rehabilitation and development across the country. The authority’s management of infrastructure-related financial obligations remains important to sustaining investment in the national road network.
The full repayment of the US$206 million loan represents progress in Zimbabwe’s efforts to address legacy debt obligations while strengthening the prospects for future infrastructure financing. The development also highlights the importance of sustainable financing arrangements in ensuring that major public infrastructure projects deliver lasting economic benefits.
