Itai Mazire
The busy Mutare Road/Harare Drive junction, better known as the Msasa Jaggers Roundabout, will be closed from next today, 1 June 2026, kicking off a major interchange project that promises to untie one of the capital’s most notorious traffic knots.
Director of Roads Engineer Jarawani Kangara announced the shutdown today, warning motorists to brace for months of diversions but insisting the long-term gain will dwarf the short-term pain.
“The road at the Mutare Road/Harare Drive junction will be closed with effect from 1 June 2026 to facilitate construction works under the Msasa Interchange Project,” said Eng. Kangara.
He added: “We urge all road users to exercise caution and cooperate with traffic management personnel to ensure the safety of both motorists and construction workers.”
The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development has mapped out designated diversion routes, with temporary signs and traffic controllers deployed across the surrounding network. Commuters are advised to expect delays and, where possible, seek alternative roads well before the roundabout.
The Msasa Interchange has been on the drawing board for years, aimed at slashing peak-hour crawl times along the key freight and commuter corridor. While no completion date was given, officials say works will press ahead in phases.
Traffic police have been placed on standby to enforce the new flow patterns.
The Ministry apologised for “any inconvenience caused” but stressed the project is critical to decongesting Harare’s eastern gateway.
