Government authorities say work to rehabilitate the Bulawayo–Maphisa highway is progressing rapidly as contractors intensify efforts to complete the project ahead of the country’s 2026 Independence Day celebrations.

The national commemorations are scheduled to take place on 18 April at Maphisa Grounds in Matabeleland South province.

Officials who toured the project this week said the road upgrade forms part of a wider infrastructure programme being implemented to prepare the area for the national event.

The Bulawayo–Maphisa route connects Zimbabwe’s second-largest city with the rural hub of Maphisa, where thousands of people are expected to gather for the celebrations.

Infrastructure projects underway

Authorities say the highway rehabilitation is one of several projects being implemented to support the Independence Day commemorations.

Other projects include construction of a new stadium and upgrades to public infrastructure in the province.

Joram Gumbo, Special Adviser to the President on Monitoring the Implementation of Government Programmes, said contractors had demonstrated strong commitment during the construction works.

“What we have noticed is that people are on the ground and they are working very hard,” Gumbo said during the inspection tour.

“I think that by the time we hold our independence, a lot of work will be complete and people will be able to travel properly.”

Government confident of progress

Gumbo expressed confidence that significant improvements would be visible before the celebrations begin.

“We expect that by April 13, there will be quite a lot of improvement along this road,” he said.

Minister of Local Government and Public Works Daniel Garwe also said government was satisfied with progress on infrastructure projects in the province.

Garwe said the ministry was overseeing the development of facilities that will host major activities during the national celebrations.

Long-term benefits expected

The stadium under construction at Maphisa Open Grounds is expected to host the traditional Independence Day children’s party and later serve as a permanent sporting facility for the local community.

Garwe said contractors had already covered a significant stretch of the Bulawayo–Maphisa corridor during the rehabilitation works.

“So far, we have covered the lag that comes from Bulawayo to where we are now, which is about 20 kilometres from the Maphisa venue,” he said.

He acknowledged that some bridge infrastructure along the route still required upgrades, which will be addressed as part of future works.

“There are challenges in terms of the size of the bridges, which we can’t work on right now, but the Ministry of Transport will work on them after the event,” Garwe said.

Importance of the road corridor

The Bulawayo–Maphisa road is an important transport route for communities in Matabeleland South.

It supports the movement of agricultural produce, livestock and goods between rural districts and urban markets.

Authorities say improved road infrastructure is expected to reduce travel times, improve road safety and support economic activity across the province.

Government has also prioritised rehabilitation of major highways across the country as part of broader efforts to modernise Zimbabwe’s road network.