Construction of the long-awaited Chirundu Border Post modernisation project is set to begin in October after the project reached financial close under a public-private partnership (PPP).
In a press briefing, yesterday, Transport and Infrastructure Development Minister, Felix Mhona, said the financial close marked a major step towards implementation, with preparatory work and mobilisation of equipment already under way at the site.
“Chirundu Border Post modernisation project has reached financial close, paving the way for full-scale construction in October under a public-private partnership,” Mhona said.
He said the Chirundu Border Consortium would mobilise the required capital for the development and subsequent operation of the upgraded facility.
“The Chirundu Border Consortium will mobilise the capital to develop and operate the upgraded facility, with Standard Bank of South Africa serving as lead debt arranger and senior lender, supported by equity and technical partners,” he said.
According to Mhona, the project is expected to take 18 months to complete once the main construction works commence, with contractors already preparing the site.
“Equipment is already being mobilised on site, with the main works expected to be completed within 18 months,” he said.
Mhona said the project would improve border operations while facilitating the movement of passengers and freight between Zimbabwe and Zambia.
“The project will modernise the key Zimbabwe-Zambia gateway on the North-South Corridor, improving border operations and facilitating passenger and freight movement,” he said.
The use of a PPP financing model allows the private sector consortium to provide capital for the development and operation of the facility, while Government retains its role in overseeing the strategic infrastructure and ensuring that the project serves national and regional transport objectives.
The project forms part of broader Government efforts to modernise transport infrastructure and strengthen Zimbabwe’s position as a regional trade and transit hub.
