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Freedom Mupanedemo, Midlands Bureau 

THE Shurugwi-Mhandamabwe Road, once a dangerous stretch for motorists, has undergone a significant transformation with the completion and opening of another 10 kilometres to traffic.

This infrastructure upgrade is a vital catalyst for productivity and sustainable development expected to increase cargo movement and travel along the southern region corridor. 

The second phase completion is a ground-breaking achievement set to revolutionise the local community and foster economic growth.

Under the Second Republic, infrastructure development is a top priority and the upgraded Shurugwi-Mhandamabwe Road is expected to boost cargo movement and travel on the south corridor, driving productivity and sustainable growth.

Impressed by the progress made so far on the Shurugwi-Mhandamabwe Road, Deputy Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Development, Cde Joshua Sacco, said the project complements the Government’s efforts of achieving an upper-middle income society by 2030.

“We are very happy as Government with the progress that our local contractors have done. 

“This is commendable and the work exudes quality. As you know, this road is critical for trade and travel. It’s important that we make sure it is complete within the set time frame,” he said.

Deputy Minister Sacco said the completion and opening of the second phase of the Shurugwi-Mhandamabwe highway to traffic is a game-changer for the local community. 

Shurugwi South Constituency legislator, Wilson Mhuri, also applauded the Second Republic for spearheading life-changing and people-centred projects.

“The rehabilitation works of the Shurugwi-Mhandamabwe Road are a clear testimony that the Second Republic walks the talk and fulfils its promises. 

“This will, by a long way, play a pivotal role in saving lives and even economic activities of this district,” he said.

Mr Sharpstone Ncube, a local motorist, commended the Government’s dedication to development, citing the visible progress as a testament to the commitment. 

He expressed gratitude for the leadership’s holistic approach, which ensures equal opportunities for all. 

“These are clear results that we are getting from the works and commitment exuded by the Government. We want to thank our leadership for leaving no one and no place behind in its developmental programmes,” he said.

Mr Ncube recalled how, just a decade ago, transport operators by-passed the route, leaving residents with limited options and long walks.

“Thankfully, those difficulties are now going to be a distant memory,” said Mr Ncube.

A total of 22km along the Shurugwi-Mhandamabwe road has now been opened to traffic as the Government continues to make progress in the rehabilitation of the country’s roads under the Emergency Road Rehabilitation Programme (ERRP).