In a significant move towards infrastructure development, Zimbabwe has received a grant of US$17.4 million from Japan. This funding is earmarked for the completion of a 7.8km stretch between Makuti and Marongora Phase 2 in the North-South Corridor.
The first phase of the road, a 6.5km stretch between Marongora and Hell’s Gate, was commissioned by President Mnangagwa in 20211. It was also funded by Japan through the Japan International Co-operation Agency (JICA).
The grant agreement was signed by Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube, Japan Ambassador to Zimbabwe Mr Shinichi Yamanaka, and JICA chief representative to Zimbabwe, Mr Shigeki Furuta.
The North-South Corridor is a vital international trunk road, essential for Zimbabwe’s trade with neighbouring countries and regional trade1. It is forecast by the AU to become one of the continent’s busiest transport corridors by 2040.
The project will be supervised by JICA engineers and implemented by road works teams of the Department of Roads in the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development.
The project will also go a long way in improving the ease of doing business by smoothening the flow of traffic thereby reducing the time spent on the road for transit trucks and trucks delivering products to and from the country.
This development is a beacon of hope for Zimbabwe, promising improved trade, smoother transportation, and a brighter future.
Source: The Herald
