Transport and Infrastructure Development Minister, Felix Mhona, says rehabilitation of the Bulawayo–Victoria Falls Road is progressing, with all eight contractors back on site and expected to rehabilitate at least 20 kilometres each by December 2026.
Minister Mhona said 73.4km had so far been rehabilitated, with work continuing in phases to ensure that different sections of the road receive the necessary attention.
“Rehabilitation works on the Bulawayo–Victoria Falls Road are ongoing, and I am pleased to report that all eight contractors are back on site.
Each contractor is targeting to rehabilitate at least 20 kilometres by December 2026, demonstrating our determination to accelerate progress on this important infrastructure project,” he said.
The minister said the rehabilitation process involved several stages, including bush clearing, construction of detours, earthworks, drainage improvements, surfacing and road widening.
“These works cannot be completed overnight because road rehabilitation requires careful execution at every stage.
From bush clearing and earthworks to drainage, surfacing and widening, each activity is essential to delivering a road that is safe, durable and capable of supporting increased traffic,” Mhona added.
He said Government remained committed to the project and had prioritised its implementation, with the Ministry strengthening monitoring mechanisms to ensure that contractors adhered to the agreed scope, timelines and required quality standards.
“Government remains fully committed to this project, and we are prioritising its implementation. Our responsibility is not simply to ensure that work is taking place, but also to monitor progress, assess the quality of work and ensure that the prescribed scope is being delivered,” he said.
Mhona said the completed sections would contribute towards improving the movement of people and goods while supporting tourism and economic activity along the corridor.
“The Bulawayo–Victoria Falls Road is an important link connecting Bulawayo, Hwange and Victoria Falls. Improving this route will enhance connectivity, improve safety and reduce travel time, benefiting communities, businesses and the tourism sector,” he said.
The journey between the destinations currently takes about 15 hours, highlighting the importance of improving the road’s condition and efficiency.
The rehabilitation forms part of Government’s infrastructure development drive aimed at improving the national road network and facilitating economic growth.
