Harare–Kanyemba Road Project Pushes Ahead During Festive Season

Work continues on the Harare–Kanyemba Road during the festive season, highlighting Zimbabwe’s commitment to infrastructure development, job creation and economic transformation (image source)

HARARE — Zimbabwe’s infrastructure development drive continued uninterrupted during the festive season, with construction work progressing on key road projects across the country despite heavy rains and the Christmas break.

One of the flagship projects, the Harare–Kanyemba Road, recorded steady progress as contractors remained on site to meet set targets. The 365-kilometre project, which forms part of the Government’s broader infrastructure modernisation programme under the Second Republic, involves upgrading and widening the road linking Harare to Kanyemba. Construction began in 2024 and is scheduled for completion in 2029.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa recently underscored infrastructure development as a major achievement of 2025, noting that the conclusion of the National Development Strategy One (NDS1) had delivered tangible results. Speaking in his Unity Day message, the President said NDS2 would prioritise industrialisation, value addition and inclusive economic growth.

“We are committed to accelerating the transformation of our economy, creating jobs and improving the quality of life of our people,” Mnangagwa said.

On site, workers confirmed that construction continued throughout the holiday period. One employee said the decision to work through the festive season was driven by the need to meet deadlines while benefiting from employment opportunities created by ongoing public infrastructure projects.

“We have targets to meet, so we have had to work throughout the holiday season. We are glad that under President Mnangagwa there are many ongoing projects which are assisting us to be gainfully employed,” the worker said.

Resident Engineer Collin Cosmas said approximately 40 kilometres of the road have already been completed. He explained that the current phase covers the Lomagundi–Blue Ridge section, adding that while rainfall had caused some disruptions, contractors remained committed to meeting performance benchmarks.

“We have been disturbed by the rains, but it is important that we meet this target,” Cosmas said.

Government has prioritised the participation of local construction firms in major infrastructure projects, a policy that has also created employment opportunities for graduates from local tertiary institutions. Officials say the Harare–Kanyemba Road is expected to stimulate economic activity along the corridor by improving access to northern border areas and facilitating trade and investment.

Analysts note that infrastructure development remains central to Zimbabwe’s economic transformation agenda, with roads and transport networks viewed as catalysts for industrial growth and regional integration. As construction continues, the Harare–Kanyemba Road stands as both a source of livelihoods and a critical link in the country’s long-term development strategy.