Beitbridge starts working on new CBD project

Beitbridge Municipality is moving forward with plans to develop a new Central Business District (CBD) after awarding a tender to contractor Tiger Eye.

The new CBD will be located between the Engen Service Station and Mashavhire Business Centre in Tshituadze suburb, around 1km from the current CBD near the Beitbridge border post. The project forms part of the town's broader vision to modernise infrastructure, attract investors, and boost economic growth.

Beitbridge Town Clerk, Mr Loud Ramakgapola, told stakeholders during a Full Council meeting on Monday that construction is expected to begin between December 2025 and January 2026, with an anticipated duration of six months.

"A meeting has been held between council management and the contractor to finalise the project's details," Mr Ramakgapola said. "Under this development model, the contractor will fund the servicing of the area and charge clients intending to invest in the new CBD. Investors will be expected to embrace the densification concept, constructing properties from four storeys upwards."

He highlighted that the project aims to create economic opportunities for residents and investors while enhancing Beitbridge's commercial landscape. The initiative is also expected to provide modern business facilities and employment opportunities for the local community.

Mr Ramakgapola further noted that the municipality plans to hire an engineering consultancy firm to conduct a feasibility study in the Dulivhadzimu rank area, which is prone to flooding, as part of an urban renewal programme.

Efforts are also being made to speed up the construction of a modern long-distance Dulivhadzimu bus terminus. "Work had slowed due to machinery breakdowns, but the volume of buses using the current facility is increasing. As of August, we handled 11,600 buses, highlighting the urgent need to complete the project and improve service delivery," he said.

On revenue collection, Mr Ramakgapola acknowledged challenges, stating the council currently collects only 21 percent of its target, which has negatively affected service delivery. The municipality is engaging debtors and, where necessary, will use debt collectors to improve revenue performance.

The development of the new CBD forms part of Beitbridge Municipality's broader efforts to modernise infrastructure, promote economic growth, and provide better services to its residents.