From nightmare to lifeline: The transformation of the Bulawayo-Kezi-Maphisa Road

Itai Mazire

For years, the stretch of tarmac connecting the city of Bulawayo to the heart of Matabeleland South was more than just a commute, for many, it was a test of endurance.

The Bulawayo-Kezi-Maphisa Road, a vital artery for the region’s economic and social life, had fallen into a state of severe disrepair.

Potholes the size of craters and cracked surfaces had earned it the grim reputation of being a “motorist’s nightmare.”

However, as Zimbabwe gears up to host the 2026 National Independence Day celebrations in Maphisa, this narrative is rapidly changing.

The rehabilitation of this 63-kilometre corridor is not merely a cosmetic touch-up but a comprehensive reconstruction effort under the Second Republic’s restorative development agenda.

As part of the broader Vision 2030 and the Emergency Road Rehabilitation Programme (ERRP2), the project aims to unlock the economic potential of a region rich in agriculture and mining.

At the helm of this transformation is the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development’s Roads Department.

Engineer Jarawani Kangara, the Director of Roads, recently provided an update on the technical progress of the works. He highlighted the meticulous preparation required before the final transformation takes place.

“Surface preparation, including crack sealing and pothole patching, is currently in progress on the Bulawayo-Kezi-Maphisa Road. Following this, we will apply Asphalt Concrete (AC).”

This “surface preparation” phase is critical. Engineers are currently reclaiming the old strip road and reinforcing the foundation with three distinct base layers.

This ensures that the road can withstand the heavy traffic and environmental stressors it will face.

The final application of Asphalt Concrete (AC, specifically a 35mm asphalt overlay will provide the smooth, durable finish that has been missing for decades.

The significance of the Bulawayo-Kezi-Maphisa Road extends far beyond the convenience of travel.

It serves as a lifeline for several key economic hubs in Matabeleland South.

The acceleration of the project is tied to a historic milestone.

For the first time, Maphisa, formerly known as Antelope Mine, will host the National Independence Day celebrations in 2026.

The construction of a new stadium at the Maphisa Open Grounds is already underway to accommodate the festivities.The road rehabilitation is a central piece of the “Independence Legacy Projects” in the province.