Staff Reporter
Government is leaving no stone unturned in a bid to improve the country’s transport system.
Yesterday, the Minister of Finance and Investment Promotion, Professor Mthuli Ncube, met with representatives from China Railway International Group to discuss ways to revamp the railway system in Zimbabwe.
Writing on its X page, the Ministry revealed that Minister Ncube explored the possibility of a partnership to rejuvenate the operations of the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ).
"The Hon. Minister (Ncube) today met with the Chairperson of the China Railway International Group, Prof. Bi Yanchun, and his team. They discussed ongoing progress on the group's partnership with the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) towards the expansion of the country’s railway systems," stated the Ministry.
Economic commentator Gracious Chidamba applauded the Government's efforts to resuscitate NRZ, emphasising the entity's vital role in the country's economic development.
"Revamping the NRZ is crucial for enhancing trade and industrial growth. A functional railway system reduces transportation costs and increases efficiency, which is essential for economic progress," said Dr Chidamba.
Another commentator, Mercy Mwale, highlighted the Government's broader initiatives to establish a world-class transport system, noting significant infrastructure projects such as the Emergency Road Rehabilitation Programme (ERRP) and the recent expansion of the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, Honourable Felix Mhona, provided updates yesterday on key projects under his ministry.
The Minister said that the rehabilitation of the Old International Terminal Building at the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport in Harare is progressing well, with the VVIP lounge nearing completion at 84.5%.
Minister Mhona also reported notable progress on the Harare-Masvingo-Beitbridge highway, with 16 kilometres of the targeted 30 kilometres already constructed and opened to traffic. The earthworks on the remaining stretch have exceeded 55% completion. The construction of the Mbudzi Interchange has reached a commendable 63% completion level.
Vision 2030, which aims to establish a prosperous upper-middle-income society by 2030, recognises transportation as a pivotal catalyst for economic growth.
The Second Republic has consistently pursued transport infrastructure improvements to realise this vision.
