Government has expressed satisfaction with progress on the Gwanda–Maphisa Road project and pledged to ensure the timely release of funds so that the road is completed ahead of this year’s Independence Day Celebrations.
The project, one of the major Independence Celebrations legacy projects in Matabeleland South Province is moving steadily, with six contractors engaged to speed up construction. So far, the 1.2-kilometre Kononkwe stretch has been completed.
Special Advisor to the President on Monitoring Implementation of Government Programmes, Dr Joram Gumbo, who toured the project yesterday, said he was impressed by the progress and pledged to push for the swift release of funding for outstanding works.
“This is part of the independence legacy projects, and for a long time no work had been done on this road. When we see this progress, we are happy. We will push the Treasury to expedite the release of funds so that by year end the project is completed. With the number of contractors on site, we are convinced it will be finished,” he said.
Officials say the completed 66-kilometre road will stand as a lasting reminder of the equitable infrastructure development being championed by the Second Republic.
“This road is crucial for Matabeleland South’s economic development. We are happy that works are ongoing,” said the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Albert Nguluvhe.
“We have about six contractors sharing the 66-kilometre Gwanda–Maphisa Road, with some starting from Maphisa and others working from the middle. Works are at various stages,” said Provincial Roads Engineer, Mangisi Nkomo.
The Gwanda–Maphisa Road forms part of a wider package of Independence legacy projects, which include the Bulawayo–Kezi Highway, the Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Vocational Training Centre, Filabusi Registry, 40 Village Business Units across Matobo District and 40 science and computer laboratories across Matabeleland South.
