Zimbabwe’s Transport Minister Felix Mhona has reassured the public that the government’s road rehabilitation programme will continue, dispelling concerns that it might be abandoned following the successful hosting of the SADC Heads of State Summit in Harare last August.

The programme, which saw a significant acceleration in road improvements ahead of the summit, had slowed down in recent weeks, leading to speculation about its future.

Speaking at the opening of a rehabilitated section of Solomon Mujuru Drive in Harare, Mr Mhona stated emphatically, “We have forgotten about SADC and we are not stopping. The rehabilitation of roads you witnessed before the SADC summit will continue.”

The minister outlined plans for road improvements beyond the capital, mentioning projects in Mashonaland West, including the Harare-Kariba, Karoi-Dete-Binga, and Alaska-Copperqueen routes.

The rehabilitation of Solomon Mujuru Drive, formerly known as Kirkman Drive, includes widening the road and constructing a mini-interchange at its intersection with Harare Drive. This project is expected to help decongest the Bulawayo Road upon completion.

George Manyaya, board chairperson of ZINARA (Zimbabwe National Road Administration), emphasised the importance of public contributions to these projects. “Your continued payment of licences has ensured that we have enough to fund these projects,” he said, stressing the need for accountability in the use of public funds.

The ongoing road works are being carried out by Leengate Contractors and funded by ZINARA, demonstrating a continued commitment to improving Zimbabwe’s road infrastructure beyond the preparations for international events.