Midlands State University (MSU) has established a modified coal tar manufacturing plant in Zvishavane, a development expected to significantly reduce the cost of road construction projects across the country.
The US$11 million plant is producing a locally developed alternative to imported bitumen, using coal tar and silicon oxide nano-particles. The innovation aligns with the Government’s Education 5.0 thrust, which promotes industrialisation through research, innovation and the use of local resources.
Speaking on the project, Zvishavane resident Zondo Sakala said the initiative would bring relief to communities affected by poor road infrastructure.
“This should definitely make a significant contribution towards reducing the cost of road projects across the country. If roads are cheaper to build, more communities like ours will benefit,” he said.
The plant is expected to create about 2 500 jobs while saving the country up to 40 percent of the foreign currency currently used to import bitumen. The modified coal tar is also considered environmentally friendly, making it suitable for sustainable infrastructure development.
Another community member, Thandiwe Moyo, said the project would boost local employment and economic activity in Zvishavane.
“We are happy that MSU has brought this project here. Many youths will get jobs and small businesses will benefit from increased activity in the area,” she said.
The innovation has already been patented through the African Regional Intellectual Property Organisation (ARIPO), marking a milestone for locally driven research and development.
A local transport operator, Lovemore Dube, said improved and affordable road construction would reduce vehicle maintenance costs.
“Bad roads damage our vehicles. If this project helps Government build better roads at lower cost, it will save us money and improve transport efficiency,” he said.
The project is part of MSU’s contribution to national development and industrial growth under Education 5.0, a philosophy launched by President Mnangagwa that encourages universities to go beyond teaching and research to focus on innovation and industrialisation.
Community members expressed optimism that the locally produced coal tar will accelerate road rehabilitation programmes while stimulating economic growth in mining towns such as Zvishavane and beyond.
