The Masvingo-Glen Norah loop road, a key component of the ambitious Mbudzi Interchange project, was partially opened to traffic on Monday, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing infrastructure development south of Harare.
The 3-kilometre stretch, extending from Amalinda Drive into Glen Norah C suburb, was inaugurated by Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona. The ceremony was attended by several high-ranking officials, including Deputy Minister Joshua Sacco, Minister of State for Harare Provincial Affairs and Devolution Charles Tawengwa, ZINARA board chairperson George Manyaya, Harare Mayor Councillor Jacob Mafume, and other senior government representatives.
According to The Herald, progress on the Mbudzi Interchange has been substantial, with 11 out of the 15 planned bridges now completed. The interchange, which is under construction at the junction of Simon Mazorodze, Chitungwiza, and High Glen roads, features a complex design with 15 bridges 13 directly on the interchange and two on Amalinda Drive and Harare Drive.
The newly opened loop road is a vital link, connecting with High Glen Road, which serves as a major route for the southwestern suburbs of Harare and facilitates access to the western parts of the city’s primary industrial zone.
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Minister Mhona also addressed the issue of compensation for property owners affected by the construction. He assured that all individuals whose properties were demolished for the Mbudzi Interchange would receive compensation by the end of the month.
Resident engineer Emmanuel Dube provided an update on the project’s progress, revealing that significant strides have been made. “We are undertaking 21 kilometres of roadworks here, with the 3-kilometre stretch we have opened operating at deck level. Overall, bridge construction is 94% complete, while civil works are at 64%. The entire project is now 70% finished,” Dube noted.
The Mbudzi Interchange project continues to advance, the partial opening of the Masvingo-Glen Norah loop road represents a crucial step towards improving traffic flow and enhancing connectivity in Harare. The completion of the entire project is anticipated to bring considerable benefits, including reduced congestion and improved access to key areas in the city.
