Tinashe Makichi
HARARE – Japan has extended a grant aid of approximately $21 million to Zimbabwe for a road construction project earmarked to improve steep gradients on the Makuti–Chirundu section of the North–South Corridor.
The project will be implemented by the Department of Roads in the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development under supervision by Japanese highway engineers, who will share their experience and the latest expertise gained from highway construction in Japan’s mountainous terrain.
The 6.5km Makuti – Hell’s Gate section construction is in line with Zimbabwe’s thrust to progressively upgrade this important trunk road that acts as a major artery in the movement of goods and services within the Southern African region.
There is a high accident rate at this section, and in 2016 a total of 110 accidents were recorded along this stretch of highway.
Through this project, climbing lanes will be constructed and the horizontal and/or vertical alignment improved, with sharp bends addressed, thereby contributing greatly to the smooth and safe traffic flow.
The safer design of this section of road means that the number of accidents is expected to decrease to under 20 per year
Through this project, over 250 road workers and other staff will be employed. The construction phase is expected to commence later this year and be completed in early 2021.
“This project will serve as a model for the improvement of other steep sections of highway in the region.The interventions by the Government of Japan are in line with Government’s national priorities, and effectively contribute to the implementation of our national priorities and development thrust as enunciated in the Zimbabwe Agenda for Sustainable Socio-Economic Transformation.
“Under the new dispensation ushered in on 24 November 2017, functional infrastructure is considered key to unlocking economic growth potential, increase competitiveness and productivity,”said Finance and Economic Development Minister Patrick Chinamasa.
He said support from development partners, such as Japan, as well as the private sector will remain critical in addressing the country’s current infrastructure gap.
He said Government prioritises road infrastructure development as it is key to economic development and trade promotion, both locally and regionally.
