Communities in Chivi Central are set to benefit from a major infrastructure rehabilitation programme targeting roads and water access, with ongoing upgrades to the Gwitima – Mafuta and Chivi – Shokoni roads expected to improve transport, access to essential services and economic activity in Ward 18.
Residents say the rehabilitation works will bring relief to communities that have for years struggled with deteriorating roads, particularly during the rainy season when some sections become nearly impassable.
Chivi Central Member of Parliament (MP) Exevia Maoneke said improving the road network remains a priority in efforts to accelerate rural development and improve livelihoods in the constituency.
“Good roads are important for community development because they improve access to schools, clinics, markets and other essential services,” he said.
MP Maoneke said the rehabilitation works would also enhance business activities and ease transportation challenges faced by farmers and transport operators.
“Our people rely heavily on these roads for their daily activities. Improving road infrastructure will help communities transport goods more efficiently and improve service delivery,” he said.
Residents welcomed the development, describing the rehabilitation programme as a major relief for villagers, school children and local businesses.
A farmer in Ward 18, Tawanda Mudzamiri, said poor road conditions had been affecting the transportation of agricultural produce to markets.
“During the rainy season, it becomes very difficult for vehicles to pass through some areas. These road works will help farmers and businesses operate more efficiently,” he said.
He also said school children had been struggling to travel safely because of the damaged roads.
“Children have been walking long distances through muddy roads to get to school. The rehabilitation works will improve safety and make travelling easier,” he added.
In another major development for Ward 18, MP Maoneke pledged the installation of solar-powered boreholes at Gwitima School and Shozhowe School to improve access to clean and safe water for learners and surrounding communities.
The boreholes are expected to help address persistent water shortages while promoting improved hygiene and sanitation at the schools and nearby villages.
MP Maoneke said access to clean water was critical in improving health and education standards in rural communities.
“The solar-powered boreholes will provide reliable water sources for learners and surrounding communities while helping improve sanitation and hygiene,” he said.
Community members praised the projects, describing them as life-changing interventions that would improve education, health and economic activities in the area.
The infrastructure rehabilitation programme forms part of wider efforts aimed at improving living standards and accelerating development in Chivi Central. Residents said the rehabilitation of roads and installation of boreholes would bring lasting benefits to communities in Ward 18 and surrounding areas.
