By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
Harare — Zimbabwe continues to register tangible progress in rural development as key infrastructure projects under the Infrastructure and Utilities Pillar of the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) move steadily forward.
This was announced by the Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Hon. Jenfan Muswere, during the Twenty-Third Post-Cabinet Press Briefing held on 5 August 2025.
According to the update, substantial work has been undertaken in rehabilitating bridges, improving road access, expanding water infrastructure, and boosting irrigation systems in rural communities.
One of the major highlights is the ongoing rehabilitation of the Chadzire Bridge in Buhera, Manicaland Province, which has now reached 65% completion.
“This bridge, once complete, will significantly enhance access and mobility for surrounding rural communities, especially during the rainy season when transport becomes difficult. In the same province, work on the regravelling of the 3km stretch of the Samhutsa-Ngaone Road in Chipinge is 60% complete, improving road safety and connectivity in the area,” said Muswere
In Midlands Province, rehabilitation of the Pohwe Bridge in Gokwe South is also progressing well and currently stands at 60% completion. Meanwhile, the Makugwe Bridge in Mwenezi, Masvingo Province is further along, with 70% of the work completed. These projects are part of a broader strategy to strengthen rural transport infrastructure, opening up previously inaccessible areas to markets, health services, and education.
The government is also prioritising water access and rural energy solutions through solar-powered systems.
“ In Gutu, Masvingo Province, the installation of a solar-powered piped water scheme is 70% complete, while in Manama, Gwanda, Matabeleland South, a similar project has reached 60% completion. These schemes are expected to improve access to clean water for domestic use and agricultural purposes, and they are central to Zimbabwe’s push for climate-resilient infrastructure,” he added
The country has also exceeded its national targets in borehole development. A total of 37 boreholes have been drilled across all provinces, surpassing the initial target of 20. In addition, 535 boreholes have been repaired and maintained, exceeding the target of 500. These efforts are being undertaken as part of Phase 1 of the Presidential Rural Solarisation Project, which aims to provide clean water through solar-powered infrastructure, particularly in underserved rural areas.
Other infrastructure projects currently underway include the construction of the Kambanje Bridge in Mudzi and the Dudzu Irrigation Scheme in Goromonzi, both in Mashonaland East Province. In Mberengwa, Midlands Province, progress continues on the Mabori Armco Structure and Phoenix Irrigation Scheme, both of which are set to enhance agricultural productivity and food security in the region.
Minister Muswere noted that these infrastructure interventions are not only improving rural livelihoods but also reinforcing government’s commitment to inclusive development.
“These projects are a testament to the Second Republic’s promise to deliver infrastructure that uplifts communities and supports long-term economic resilience,” he said.
As the country moves toward the conclusion of NDS1 and prepares to implement NDS2, government officials have reaffirmed their commitment to accelerating infrastructure delivery, particularly in rural areas, to ensure that no community is left behind in the national development agenda.