Transport and Infrastructural Development minister Felix Mhona says government has spent US$45 million towards the construction of Mbudzi Interchange in Harare, a key infrastructure project aimed at enhancing connectivity and strategic positioning in the region.
The project, with a total estimated cost of US$88 million, is reported to be 55% complete, though it has fallen behind schedule.
Mhona said the interchange provided crucial connections with neighbouring countries, including Malawi, Zambia, Mozambique and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
“Construction works at the Mbudzi Interchange are progressing well, with the project now at 55% complete,” Mhona said. “This strategic move aims to connect countries like DRC, Malawi, Zambia, Mozambique and Zambia through Kanyemba. So we are also seeing dualisation and expansion of Harare-Bindura road, including construction of Kanyemba road into Zambia and Mozambique, and the Kanyemba border post enhancement and expansion.”
The project aims to facilitate smoother cross-border transportation and trade, fostering economic integration in the Southern African region. Despite the progress made, the delay in completion raises concerns about the overall efficiency of the infrastructure development initiative.
However, the Zimbabwe Independent last month reported that several directors at the Ministry of Transport are under investigation for alleged corruption related to a fund intended to compensate property owners affected by the interchange construction.
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Whistleblowers reportedly exposed a scheme where figures were manipulated to inflate property values, leading to the misappropriation of substantial funds by property owners and corrupt officials..
A director in the ministry was arrested and later released on bail.
It was estimated last year that up to US$35 million would be paid out to about 130 affected companies and residential properties to help them relocate. Some officials claimed that US$12 million could have been paid out to at least 52 individuals and businesses by the end of 2023.