Maphisa to Host 46th Independence Day Celebrations

Preparations for Zimbabwe's 46th Independence Day celebrations are gathering momentum, with government officials inspecting key infrastructure projects in Matabeleland South Province ahead of the national event scheduled for April 18, 2026 in Maphisa.

The Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Development, Felix Mhona, on 13 March 2026 toured major road rehabilitation works along the Bulawayo–Kezi–Maphisa Road and the Bulawayo–Gwanda–Maphisa Road, which are being upgraded to improve accessibility to the host venue. Follow our WhatsApp Channel

The road projects are part of broader government efforts to enhance infrastructure development while ensuring that host communities benefit from long-term improvements beyond the Independence Day festivities. In a statement, Hon. Mhona emphasized that the ongoing works are aimed at improving the livelihoods of local communities.

"The projects are not merely for show but are being implemented for the betterment of people's livelihoods," he said.

The infrastructure development programme reflects the government's commitment to improving service delivery under the leadership of President Emmerson Mnangagwa. However, some citizens have called on authorities to address other critical road networks across the country that remain in poor condition.

Responding on social media, a user  urged the minister to prioritize the rehabilitation of the Mvuma–Gweru Road, which he described as being in a deteriorating state.

"Hon. Mhona, while we appreciate the efforts to deliver services for the betterment of people's livelihoods, please also remember the road from Mvuma to Gweru. That road is in a very bad condition," the user said.