Mohadi assures Government support for Old Gwanda Road project

The Government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the construction of the Old Gwanda Road, a major infrastructure project aimed at boosting rural industrialisation and fostering economic growth in Matabeleland South. During a traditional ceremony held in Umzingwane District yesterday, Vice-President Kembo Mohadi emphasized the Government's full backing for such initiatives, marking a significant step towards improving the country's road network.

The project, being led by Zwane Enterprises Pvt Ltd under a Build, Operate, and Transfer (BOT) arrangement, is set to begin soon, with a formal ground-breaking ceremony anticipated next month, to be presided over by President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

"The Old Gwanda Road project exemplifies the Government's commitment and capability to work in partnership with the private sector to enhance infrastructure like roads. It stands as a prime example of Government-private sector collaboration and aligns with the transformative infrastructure projects being rolled out by the Second Republic across the country," said Vice-President Mohadi.

He further highlighted that the construction of a modern, upgraded Old Gwanda Road is set to be a turning point for Matabeleland South, promising socio-economic development for the region and the country at large. Mohadi emphasized the need for active community involvement in the project, stressing that it should create opportunities for local industries and enhance the region's overall prosperity.

"We must engage with communities to understand their needs, expectations, and concerns. This project will bring people together, stimulate the local economy, and provide new opportunities for job creation and economic growth," he added.

The ceremony also marked a significant cultural moment, with a traditional thanksgiving ritual led by spirit mediums to ensure the ancestors' blessings for the project. A calabash of traditional brew was poured onto the ground as a symbol of respect and gratitude for the ancestral guidance in paving the way for the development.

Vice-President Mohadi underscored the importance of preserving Zimbabwe's cultural heritage, stating that the ceremony was a powerful reminder of the country's roots and traditions. "This cultural rite reflects our commitment to preserving our traditions and honouring our ancestors, who played a vital role in shaping the future we are building today," he said.

Minister of State for Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Dr Evelyn Ndlovu, praised the project for aligning with the Government's Vision 2030, which aims to achieve an upper-middle-income economy by 2030. She noted that the Old Gwanda Road would play a pivotal role in connecting Matabeleland South to Bulawayo, the region's primary market, facilitating better access to goods, services, and economic opportunities.

"Today marks not only the commencement of a significant infrastructure project but also the beginning of progress and prosperity for our province and nation. The Old Gwanda Road is a shining example of what can be achieved when the Government, private sector, and communities collaborate towards shared goals," said Dr Ndlovu.

She added that the construction of the road would unlock new opportunities for the people of Matabeleland South, including jobs, better market access, and improved service delivery, all contributing to the realization of Vision 2030.

Zwane Enterprises' Chief Executive Officer, Engineer Bekithemba Mbambo, expressed gratitude to the community and traditional leadership for their support of the project. He acknowledged the cultural importance of the traditional ceremony in providing the necessary blessing and approval for the construction work to proceed.

"We are honored to have the support of the community and the traditional leadership in this project. This traditional ceremony marks an important milestone in our journey, and we are committed to ensuring that this road benefits everyone in the region," said Engineer Mbambo.

Chief Mathe, speaking on behalf of the community, commended Zwane Enterprises for respecting traditional processes and values. He recognized the project's potential to bring long-term benefits to the area, particularly in terms of economic development and infrastructure.

Umzingwane Constituency Member of Parliament, Brigadier-General (Rtd) Levi Mayihlome, also weighed in, highlighting that six constituencies would directly benefit from the construction of the Old Gwanda Road, which he said would usher in significant development and transformation for the region.

As construction work on the Old Gwanda Road progresses, officials anticipate the project will have far-reaching effects on the socio-economic landscape of Matabeleland South, marking a key milestone in Zimbabwe's journey toward achieving inclusive development and sustainable economic growth.