Harare's Mama Mafuyana drive reopens after major makeover

Harare motorists can now enjoy smooth travel along the newly rehabilitated 3,2km stretch of Mama Mafuyana Drive, formerly known as Lorraine Drive, as the road officially reopens to traffic. The milestone is part of the city's wider road modernisation programme, aimed at improving infrastructure and easing transport across the capital.

Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona, accompanied by Minister of State for Harare Provincial Affairs and Devolution Senator Charles Tawengwa, led the reopening ceremony. The project was undertaken by local contractor Fossil Contracting, whose initial resurfacing work was redone following complaints about substandard construction.

Mama Mafuyana Drive, which links Westgate Shopping Mall to Harare Drive, had previously suffered from damage caused by heavy traffic during detours linked to SADC road projects. Minister Mhona praised the quality of the revised work, emphasizing the government's commitment to infrastructure standards.

"Today we witness a wonderful piece of work that addresses past shortcomings," Minister Mhona said. "Under the Second Republic, we take issues of quality seriously. Work that does not meet standards is mandated to be redone, and the people of Zimbabwe can now travel on a road that reflects our commitment to excellence."

Residents and motorists have welcomed the reopening, noting improved safety and smoother traffic flow along the important thoroughfare. Authorities say ongoing assessments of other roads in the capital will continue to identify sections that require urgent rehabilitation.