Government Adopts New Funding Model to Fast-Track Harare-Chirundu Highway Rehabilitation

HARARE – The Government has adopted a sustainable financing model aimed at accelerating the rehabilitation of the 356-kilometre Harare-Chirundu Highway, one of Zimbabwe's most strategic transport corridors linking the country to Zambia, Malawi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Authorities say the new funding framework is designed to ensure uninterrupted construction once full-scale works commence, addressing concerns that have previously slowed major infrastructure projects. The highway is a critical component of regional trade and transport networks, carrying thousands of commercial and passenger vehicles between Southern and Central Africa each year.

So far, 26 kilometres of the highway have been rehabilitated with support from the Government of Japan, bringing relief to motorists and businesses that rely on the route for the movement of goods and services. The completed section has generated optimism among road users, who have long called for the full rehabilitation of the ageing highway.

Speaking on the project, Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona said the government had put in place mechanisms to guarantee sustained funding throughout the construction period.

"We have now put in place a funding model that ensures that when we start, we do not stop. We are targeting about 18 months to complete the project, and currently finalising financial modalities for contractors to fully move on site," said Mhona.

While financial arrangements are being finalised, contractors already deployed along the route will continue carrying out maintenance works aimed at improving road conditions and traffic flow. Government officials say the approach will help maintain the highway's usability while preparations for large-scale rehabilitation continue.

The Harare-Chirundu Road serves as Zimbabwe's main gateway to northern regional markets and is a key route for cargo destined for Zambia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Malawi. Transport operators have repeatedly highlighted the need for upgrades to reduce travel times, vehicle maintenance costs, and accident risks.

The government has also announced plans to modernise the Chirundu Border Post, with works expected to begin this month. The project seeks to replicate improvements implemented at the Beitbridge Border Post, which has undergone extensive upgrades in recent years to improve efficiency and reduce congestion.

"You will also see us modernising our border posts, upgrading tollgates into plazas, and installing weighbridges to curb overloading," Mhona said.

The installation of modern weighbridges is expected to strengthen enforcement against overloaded vehicles, which are often blamed for damaging road infrastructure.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa said the rehabilitation of the Harare-Chirundu Highway forms part of a broader national infrastructure development programme supported through a combination of Treasury funding, private sector investment, and development partner support.

"Infrastructure upgrading and development projects are steadily progressing through innovative funding models by Treasury, private sector financing, as well as support from development partners," the President said.

He identified the completion and rehabilitation of the Harare-Chirundu Road, the Christmas Pass bypass, the Bulawayo-Victoria Falls Road, Chirundu Border Post, and Forbes Border Post among the government's top infrastructure priorities. The President also highlighted plans for additional urban road infrastructure, including new interchanges at strategic locations, following the commissioning of the Trabablas Interchange.

The rehabilitation of the Harare-Chirundu Highway is expected to improve road safety, reduce transport costs, and enhance the movement of goods and people along one of Zimbabwe's busiest economic corridors. Analysts say improved transport infrastructure could strengthen regional trade, boost investor confidence, and support economic growth by improving connectivity between Zimbabwe and neighbouring countries. Once completed, the upgraded highway is expected to play a vital role in facilitating commerce across Southern and Central Africa while improving travel conditions for motorists and freight operators.

Harare-Chirundu Highway rehabilitation