Corruption will not be tolerated: Chiwenga
PHILLIMON MHLANGA IN MASVINGO
Vice President Constantino Chiwenga has pledged that government will work hand in hand with the construction industry to usher in a new era of infrastructure development, but warned that “corruption will not be tolerated.”
Addressing the Construction Industry Federation of Zimbabwe (CIFOZ) Congress in Masvingo yesterday, Chiwenga said the government recognises its shared responsibility with contractors to deliver “efficient, inclusive, innovative and sustainable” infrastructure, while insisting that ethics and professionalism must underpin every project.
“We understand that together, we have a shared responsibility to deliver infrastructure that is efficient, inclusive, innovative and sustainable. However, let me emphasise that this partnership must be grounded on ethics, transparency, and purposeful leadership. Let this Congress mark a collective pledge that the Zimbabwe construction industry shall be built on the pillars of honesty, hard work, and professionalism,” he said.
He added: “We cannot and shall not tolerate corruption.”
The remarks come as government seeks to reassure local and foreign investors that the playing field will be clean.
Zimbabwe’s construction sector, which contributes about 7% of GDP, has long been viewed as a growth driver, yet one hampered by volatility, inflation, foreign currency shortages, and bureaucratic delays. Allegations of inflated tenders, ghost projects, and politically connected contractors have further eroded confidence.
Chiwenga’s warning comes at a critical juncture.
Over 70% of the country’s road network is classified as poor or very poor, rail freight capacity is constrained, and power supply remains erratic.
Rehabilitating infrastructure has become urgent as Zambia, Mozambique, and South Africa aggressively court scarce investment dollars with multi-billion-dollar projects.
Saddled with over US$21bn in debt and restricted access to concessional financing, Zimbabwe must rely on public-private partnerships, domestic resource mobilisation, and selective bilateral support.
Chiwenga’s message is as much an admission of past failings as it is a call to action.
Industry leaders note that rebuilding trust will require consistent policy reform, transparent procurement, contract enforcement, and timely payments.
Contractors warn that uncertainty, currency shortages, and delayed government settlements have hindered long-term investment.
Private equity funds focused on Africa told Business Times they are open to opportunities but insist on governance safeguards.
“We are not afraid of frontier markets,” said Johannesburg-based fund manager Malcom Jones.
“But we need assurance that contracts won’t be overturned, that bribes aren’t required, and that currency risks are managed.”
Chiwenga’s emphasis on ethics and transparency appears designed to address such concerns.
