Mabvuku Interchange construction begins

Published: 6 hours ago

Construction of the long-awaited Mabvuku Traffic Interchange has commenced, with traffic now diverted to detour routes to pave the way for civil works on the busy Harare–Mutare Highway.

The project, part of Government's infrastructure modernisation drive, is expected to significantly decongest one of Zimbabwe's most notorious traffic bottlenecks, which also services heavy commuter and commercial flows from Mabvuku, Tafara, Ruwa, and surrounding areas.

Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona, accompanied by senior Government officials and legislators, toured the site on Monday, describing the interchange as a lifesaving project.

"This is one of our great projects in terms of managing and decongesting traffic. Coming from the east was problematic, but this development will separate traffic flows and reduce accidents. Importantly, it will save lives at a junction that has claimed many," Mhona said.

The interchange forms Phase One of a broader programme to build multiple interchanges around Harare, including at Harare Drive, Churchill Avenue–Liberation Legacy Way, and other key intersections.

Mhona assured motorists the project would be completed by July 2026, stressing there would be no delays as the site does not involve relocations or compensation disputes that hampered past works.

Legislators praised the initiative, with Parliamentary Transport Committee chairperson David Butau calling it "a huge milestone" that would strengthen economic fundamentals by supporting trade and production.

Motorists also welcomed the development. "This area had become a black spot where several lives were lost in accidents. I hope when it's completed, this will be a thing of the past," said Langton Moyo, a commuter.

The Mabvuku Interchange follows the recently commissioned Trabablas Traffic Interchange, which has transformed traffic flow between Simon Mazorodze, High Glen, and Chitungwiza Roads.

The new structure is part of a wider Government programme to modernise road networks, reduce congestion, and enhance safety, with several more interchanges planned nationwide.
- The Herald

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