Matabeleland roads in shambles: MP demands action

BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI

In Matabeleland North province, the roads tell a tale of neglect and disrepair. The Bulawayo-Nkayi Road, once a bustling vital main road, now resembles a rugged terrain, with potholes and craters threatening the safety of travelers. The Bulawayo-Tsholotsho Road, a vital connector to the rural heartland, has been reduced to a dusty trail, worn down by the elements and lack of maintenance. The Beitbridge-Victoria Falls Road, a key tourism route, is marred by crumbling asphalt and faded road markings, a far cry from its former glory.

Bulawayo-Victoria Falls Road in Lupinyu

Councillor Mkhontokatshaka Moyo, shot a video (https://x.com/vic_falls_live/status/1816004167678451978?s=46 ) exposing the state of Bulawayo-Victoria Falls road, mere meters from Victoria Falls International Airport that showed crumbling edges, exposed rocks and potholes galore, caused by years of neglect and heavy truck traffic.

In neighboring Matabeleland South, the story is no different, but these roads, once the lifeblood of the region’s economy, now pose significant risks to road users and hinder the development of local communities.

Luveve-Emakhandeni constituency Descent Collins Bajila, a concerned Member of Parliament, posed a question to the Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, seeking clarity on the government’s plans for road rehabilitation through Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs).

Deputy Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development Joshua Sacco, responded with a detailed plan, outlining the government’s commitment to upgrading these critical roads, including the introduction of PPPs to mobilize resources and expertise.

“The government has adopted a model inviting private partners to invest in infrastructure development, ensuring technological transfer and return on investment.” He then delved into specifics:

– Gwanda-Maphisa-Plumtree Road: 5km upgraded, 10km to be included in the extended ERRP2 program.

– Bulawayo-Nkayi Road: 2km surfaced, 9km to be completed by September.

– Bulawayo-Maphisa-Manama Road: Shoulder gravelling and pot patching done, 10km to be tendered for upgrading.

– Bulawayo-Tsholotsho Road: 5km upgraded, 40km included in the extended ERRP2 program, with 10km tendered for upgrading.

For the MPs present on the Wednesday National Assembly sitting, the response offered a glimmer of hope for the long-neglected roads, but however, they say the journey to rehabilitation is long, and only time will tell if the promised improvements will become a reality.