Old Mazowe Road Closed for Upgrades Until June, Motorists Advised on Detours

The Zimbabwean government has announced the closure of the Old Mazowe Road for reconstruction and upgrading. The 13km stretch will be under construction until June 30th, 2024, ahead of the SADC Summit in August. This closure necessitates the use of alternative routes for motorists travelling in the area.

The project is being undertaken by Bitumen World, with a focus on completing the work before the July deadline initially set. 

Vice President Constantino Chiwenga emphasized the importance of concluding the project by June to ensure a smooth experience during the upcoming SADC summit. The government has pledged its full support to Bitumen World to meet this revised deadline and deliver high-quality construction.

“We have an important SADC summit in August, and we want it to be a success,” Vice President Chiwenga remarked. “So, it requires that they finish early and also do quality work.”

The project is part of a broader government initiative to improve infrastructure throughout Zimbabwe. The “Nyika Inovakwa Nevene Vayo” (A Nation Built by Its Own) concept emphasizes utilizing local companies for such development projects. 

The inclusion of the Procurement Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (PRAZ) in the vice president’s inspection team underscores this commitment to empowering domestic businesses.

“We want to see our people get rich,” Vice President Chiwenga stated. “We want to give them contracts, not foreigners when we have the competency and capacity to do the same job.”

Fossil Contracting, the local company leading the project, has assured the public of their dedication to meeting the revised deadline and delivering exceptional workmanship. 

The project encompasses road rehabilitation and widening up to Mapinga, with the first phase focusing on the area up to the Westgate roundabout.

The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure Development will be coordinating with the contractors to ensure the project’s timely completion. 

This initiative aligns with President Mnangagwa’s vision of economic growth, as outlined in the “Zimbabwe is open for business” policy. 

Upgrading the country’s infrastructure is a crucial step towards attracting foreign investment and propelling Zimbabwe towards a prosperous future.