Nkosile Khumalo
Communities in Matabeleland South province are seeing renewed momentum in long-delayed infrastructure projects, alongside the rollout of new developments aimed at improving public services and connectivity, residents and officials said.
Projects ranging from road rehabilitation to upgrades of schools, clinics and training institutions are advancing after years of slow progress, marking what some residents describe as a turning point for the region.
Among the facilities undergoing refurbishment are Maphisa Nurse Training School, which had remained dilapidated for years, and Minda High School, which is currently being upgraded to host the Children’s party. Work is also underway at Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Polytechnic, the Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Vocational Training Centre and the Filabusi Registry Office.
Road construction and rehabilitation projects are also progressing, particularly along the Bulawayo–Maphisa and Gwanda–Maphisa routes. Officials say the works are at an advanced stage and are expected to be completed before the end of March, ahead of Zimbabwe’s 2026 Independence Day celebrations scheduled to take place in Maphisa.
Residents and road users said the improvements are already having an impact.“We are stunned by the progress on our road. It shows the seriousness of our government. We want it finished soon,” said one traveller using the Gwanda–Maphisa road.
Another driver said improved roads would ease the movement of goods. “This road will make it easier for us to transport our farming produce. There will also be a reduction in transport costs,” the driver said.
Matabeleland South Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Albert Nguluvhe, said infrastructure development was key to unlocking economic potential in the province, particularly in agriculture and mining.
Local officials said the projects are also creating employment, with more than 800 people reportedly engaged in construction and rehabilitation works across the province.“
The arrangement is working and bearing fruits… significant progress has been made, with heavy equipment now operating at the site,” said a councillor, Ngwenya, from Maphisa.
Residents said improved infrastructure is expected to reduce travel times and expand access to services such as healthcare, education and markets, in a province that has historically lagged behind in development.
Image Credit: Chronicle
