Gwanda-Maphisa road project stalls

Construction of the strategic Gwanda-Maphisa Highway in Matabeleland South has slowed significantly, with only one of the six contracted companies currently operating on site as authorities work to resolve outstanding contractual issues.

The delays have raised concerns among motorists and local communities who had hoped the long-awaited road rehabilitation project would improve transport links, reduce travel distances and stimulate economic activity across the province.

Matabeleland South Provincial Roads Engineer Mangisi Nkomo confirmed that five contractors were currently off-site, with most awaiting the review of their agreements before resuming construction.

He said JRG Goddard was the only contractor actively working on the highway, concentrating on a 10-kilometre stretch, while Difflock Construction was expected to resume operations on its allocated 30-kilometre section.

"We have one contractor on the ground who is JRG Goddard working on their 10km stretch where they are working on the subgrade. We are also expecting another contractor, Difflock Construction, to resume. These have a 30km stretch," Nkomo said.

"Some of the contractors are not on the ground as they are awaiting reviewing of their contracts. This has slowed down progress but we are expecting the issue to be finalised soon."

The Gwanda-Maphisa Highway is regarded as one of Matabeleland South's most important infrastructure projects, providing a shorter route between Gwanda, Maphisa and several surrounding districts.

Minister of State for Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution Albert Nguluvhe expressed concern over the slow progress and pledged to intervene to ensure that all contractors return to work.

He described the highway as a critical economic corridor whose completion would significantly improve connectivity and reduce transport costs.

"This road is the heartbeat of Matabeleland South. With its completion, we are reducing travel distances by over 150 kilometres to some areas, which is transformative for business and service delivery," Nguluvhe said.

He said the road would provide a shorter route to Maphisa for travellers from Gwanda, Beitbridge, Insiza and Masvingo, while opening up new opportunities for businesses and communities.

"It will also improve intra-district connectivity and unlock more business opportunities within the province. It's therefore imperative that this road is completed as soon as possible," he said.

"Works have now slowed down but I will work tirelessly to ensure that they gather pace."

Construction resumed last year as part of major infrastructure projects undertaken ahead of the 2026 Independence Day celebrations hosted by Matabeleland South.

The highway connects several important economic centres, including ARDA Antelope Estate, Makwe Irrigation Scheme, two border posts and tourism destinations in Matobo.

Once completed, the road is expected to improve access to markets for farmers, facilitate mining activities, boost tourism and make it easier for residents to access essential services.

The project forms part of the Government's broader road rehabilitation programme, which includes the Plumtree-Maitengwe, Bulawayo-Kezi, Plumtree-Tsholotsho and Beitbridge-Bulawayo highways.

These infrastructure developments are among the initiatives being pursued under Zimbabwe's Vision 2030 economic development agenda.

However, motorists have expressed frustration over the slow pace of construction, warning that prolonged delays could undermine the anticipated economic benefits.

Motorist Ben Ncube said communities had welcomed the resumption of construction last year but were becoming increasingly disappointed by the lack of visible progress.

"We had high hopes when we saw construction of the road resumed last year but now we are discouraged because there isn't much work being done," Ncube said.

"We appeal to relevant authorities to see to it that this project resumes and this time is completed."

Authorities have expressed optimism that the outstanding contract reviews will be finalised soon, allowing construction to resume across the affected sections of the highway.