Bulawayo is taking significant steps to improve its road infrastructure with new equipment acquisitions.
Mayor David Coltart announced the purchase of machinery valued at approximately US,006,475, aimed at enhancing the city’s road reconstruction efforts. This investment is part of Bulawayo’s 2025 allocation from the Zimbabwe National Road Administration (ZINARA) and includes essential equipment like backhoe loaders and tractors.
New Machinery to Transform Bulawayo’s Roads
The recent acquisition includes Caterpillar machines worth about US2,875 and New Holland tractors valued at US,600. This equipment will enable the city’s Works Department to reduce reliance on third-party contractors and focus on comprehensive road reconstruction rather than mere maintenance.
Coltart emphasized the dire state of the city’s roads, stating that it costs approximately US million annually to maintain the existing network. Many roads require complete rebuilding, not just patching.
Government Support for Road Rehabilitation
The mayor commended the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development for its efforts in rehabilitating major routes, including Matopos Road. He also welcomed plans for an asphalt production plant in Bulawayo, which is expected to lower road construction material costs.
ZINARA engineer Enock Masotsha highlighted that the initiative reflects a commitment to strengthening the operational capacity of road authorities. He noted that the city council requires over US million annually for road maintenance, but with the new equipment, costs could be reduced.
Next Steps for Bulawayo’s Road Development
- Prioritize equipping road authorities across Zimbabwe over the next five years.
- Implement in-house road works to reduce reliance on external contractors.
- Provide technical support and operator training for optimal equipment performance.
Bulawayo is poised for a major transformation in its road infrastructure with new equipment investments.
