Pro-government social media group Varakashi4ED Mashonaland West has commended what it calls “tremendous progress” in the ongoing rehabilitation of the Bulawayo–Victoria Falls Road, describing the project as a major step towards strengthening tourism, trade, and national connectivity.
In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter) under the title “Progress in Motion,” the group celebrated visible transformation along the busy highway, particularly on the Hwange section, where construction works are reportedly in full swing. The post praised the project as a milestone in the Second Republic’s infrastructure drive, framing it as a symbol of unity and modernization.
“This massive rehabilitation project goes beyond resurfacing a road — it’s about reconnecting communities, boosting tourism, and powering trade across Zimbabwe,” the group wrote. “The upgraded highway is enhancing access to one of the world’s natural wonders, the majestic Victoria Falls, making travel smoother and more enjoyable for visitors from around the globe.”
Varakashi4ED further argued that the improved route will serve as a vital commercial artery for the movement of goods and services between Zimbabwe’s southern and northern regions, and also with neighboring countries. The group said the road’s upgrade will cut travel time, reduce transport costs, and improve safety for motorists.
“A modern, well-maintained road means fewer accidents, better visibility, and greater confidence for all road users,” it said. “Every kilometre completed is a step forward in building a modern, connected Zimbabwe. This is more than just infrastructure — it’s a symbol of progress, unity, and national pride.”
Varakashi4ED Hails Progress on Bulawayo–Victoria Falls Road, Says Project Will Boost Tourism and Trade
The Bulawayo–Victoria Falls Road is one of Zimbabwe’s most strategic highways, stretching over 430 kilometers and linking the country’s second-largest city, Bulawayo, to its premier tourist destination, Victoria Falls. The road also forms part of a regional transport network connecting Zimbabwe with Zambia, Botswana, and Namibia.
However, years of neglect and limited maintenance had left the once-pristine route riddled with potholes and deteriorating sections, posing a danger to travelers and affecting tourism and freight operations. The government, through the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure Development, launched a series of rehabilitation projects under the Emergency Road Rehabilitation Programme (ERRP2) to restore major roads across the country, including this critical corridor.
Tourism operators have long lobbied for the reconstruction of the highway, saying poor road conditions discouraged self-driving tourists and slowed the recovery of the tourism sector, which remains a key source of foreign currency for the nation.
“The revival of this road network is not just a government victory but a national necessity,” said a tourism stakeholder in Hwange, responding to Varakashi4ED’s post. “The Bulawayo–Victoria Falls Road is the gateway to one of Africa’s greatest attractions. Any investment that makes it safer and faster will pay off through increased tourist arrivals and regional trade.”
Despite the positive outlook promoted by pro-government groups, public opinion remains divided. Many citizens have voiced skepticism about the pace of progress and the transparency surrounding the project’s budget and contractors.
Several road projects under ERRP2 have in the past been criticized for delays, inconsistent quality, and inflated costs. Opposition figures and civil society organizations have called for greater accountability and for the government to disclose detailed progress reports to ensure value for money.
In recent months, travelers have also shared mixed reviews online. While some acknowledge visible improvements in certain stretches, others report that large sections remain in disrepair, raising questions about whether the project will be completed within its stated timeline.
Nonetheless, Varakashi4ED insists that the current pace of work reflects genuine progress. “Transformation is unfolding,” the group emphasized, arguing that the rehabilitation effort demonstrates the government’s commitment to long-term national development rather than short-term fixes.
The Bulawayo–Victoria Falls project is part of a broader national agenda to modernize Zimbabwe’s road infrastructure. Government officials have repeatedly said that good roads are central to attracting investment, stimulating trade, and supporting the tourism and mining industries.
The Ministry of Transport recently stated that over 10,000 kilometers of roads have been rehabilitated or maintained nationwide since the inception of ERRP2. However, it also admitted that funding constraints, limited equipment, and the impact of inflation have slowed progress on some projects.
For now, groups like Varakashi4ED continue to rally behind the government’s narrative of progress and transformation. Their messages, amplified online, are part of a broader effort to defend and publicize state-led development initiatives under President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration.
As construction continues along the Hwange and Lupane sections, expectations remain high that the completed Bulawayo–Victoria Falls Road will help reposition Zimbabwe as a regional transport hub and a premier tourist destination. Whether the project ultimately meets those ambitions will depend on sustained funding, transparency, and timely delivery — factors that many Zimbabweans continue to watch closely.
Source-Bulawayo24
