THE long-awaited construction of the Plumtree-Maitengwe Road has commenced, marking a major milestone in improving road connectivity and economic activity in Matabeleland South province.
Transport and Infrastructural Development minister Felix Mhona said the project would enhance trade.
“Contrary to the narrative that certain regions are being sidelined, this project proves that under President (Emmerson) Mnangagwa’s leadership, no area will be left behind,” he said during a site visit last week.
“It will also help to open our borders, enhance trade and improve community livelihoods.”
The project has been hailed as a landmark development for Bulilima district as it represents the first major construction of a tarred road in the area.
Matabeleland South Zanu PF provincial chairperson Mangaliso Ndlovu said the road would bring numerous socio-economic benefits to the province.
“This is a critical road leading to Maitengwe Border Post,” he said.
“We expect increased traffic, more businesses and job opportunities as the road quality improves.
- 340km of Harare-B/bridge highway revamp complete
- Airports Company strikes mega hotel deal
- Chinese chrome smelters wreak havoc on Gweru’s roads
- 340km of Harare-B/bridge highway revamp complete
Keep Reading
“Already, 40 locals have been employed.”
Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Transport and Infrastructural Development chairperson Tawanda Karikoga expressed appreciation for government’s continued investment in road rehabilitation projects.
“As a portfolio committee, we are grateful for the road projects being spearheaded by the second republic, which are transforming lives across the country,” he said.
According to project contractor, engineer Nevermind Zambuko, the scope of work involves a complete reconstruction of the road into a modern asphalt surface.
“It is a 10km road reconstruction that we are doing,” he said.
“We are ripping the existing base, forming the new road and subgrade, and constructing proper drainage systems with culverts.”
The contractor is already on site, working to reconstruct the vital 10km stretch that links Plumtree and Maitengwe Border Post, a crucial route for trade, travel and cross-border movement.
Local residents have welcomed the development, describing it as a long-overdue project that will transform their livelihoods and the district’s economic landscape.
“This is a great project that will transform our community,” said one community member.
“Once complete, we will travel to Maitengwe Border Post more efficiently.
“Many of us have also gained employment through this project.
The Plumtree-Maitengwe Road construction is part of government’s Emergency Road Rehabilitation Programme, aimed at upgrading national and district road networks.
