Transport Ministry Updates on Nkayi, Bulawayo–Victoria Falls, and Old Gwanda Road Projects

By Charity Chikara

The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development has provided a detailed update on several major road rehabilitation projects underway in Matabeleland, focusing on the Nkayi–Bulawayo Road, the Bulawayo–Victoria Falls Road, and the Old Gwanda Road.

Speaking on the sidelines of a donation handover at Gwanda Provincial Hospital by the Zimbabwe National Road Administration (ZINARA) and the Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe (TSCZ), Deputy Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, Honourable Joshua Sacco said the government is prioritising infrastructure that supports both the economy and regional access.

“We have touched on the Bulawayo–Victoria Falls Road, which is a very key artery for us within the North–South Corridor,” he said.

“It’s important not only for tourism into Victoria Falls and Hwange, but also for the movement of coal and other minerals from Hwange to various markets.”

He confirmed that seven contractors have been awarded sections of the road and five have already mobilised.

“We are seeing activity on the ground. If you drive along the road, you’ll notice detour clearings and preparatory works underway. That shows progress is happening,” Hon Sacco said.

He expressed optimism that by the end of next year, the road will be in significantly better condition.

“Our target is to see real progress by the end of 2025. This road has been long overdue for rehabilitation and we are now on track,” he added.

The Deputy Minister also gave updates on the Nkayi–Bulawayo Road, another key route for local access and economic activity.

“Work has already started on the Nkayi–Bulawayo Road. This is an important route for the people of Nkayi and surrounding areas, and we are addressing it as a priority,” he said.

On the Old Gwanda Road, Honourable Sarko said all paperwork has been completed, and physical works will begin soon.

“We have signed a concession agreement with the contractor for the Old Gwanda Road. What remains now is mobilization to site. Once that happens, work will start,” he said.

He also addressed progress on the Bulawayo–Beitbridge Road, another strategic route connecting southern Zimbabwe to the rest of the country and to South Africa.

“The contract has been awarded to Bitumen World. They are now working on financial closure to determine what is required to get the project fully underway,” Sarko said.

He noted that these projects reflect the government’s broader goal to ensure no part of the country is left behind in development.

“His Excellency, President Mnangagwa, always reminds us that Zimbabwe is a unitary state. Development must be inclusive. No place and no person should be left out,” Sarko said.

He added that the Ministry will continue to push for accelerated delivery on road infrastructure across provinces.

“We are active on the ground. These roads are not just lines on a map, they are lifelines for communities. We are working to make sure they’re improved and maintained,” he said.