Zimbabwe govt warns road contractors over shoddy work

Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona announced that contractors delivering substandard roadwork will not be paid until they reconstruct or rehabilitate the roads to the Government's satisfaction.

Projects will be closely monitored to ensure quality, and payments will only be made upon satisfactory completion.

Minister Mhona's statement came during the opening of a 1.8km stretch of Nemakonde Way in Harare.

Recently, he ordered Fossil Contracting to redo Lorraine Drive and Asphalt Products to redo a part of Harare Drive due to poor work quality. Both companies have committed to correcting their work.

The Government will also focus on other key roads, such as the Beitbridge-Bulawayo-Victoria Falls Road. Minister Mhona emphasized accountability and quality in using public funds and expressed the aim to empower local contractors while maintaining high standards.

Engineers responsible for poor-quality jobs will be held accountable, and continuous supervision will ensure adherence to standards.

The rehabilitation efforts have been praised by both government officials and the public for improving road conditions and easing travel congestion.