Bulawayo, (New Ziana) — The rehabilitation of the Bulawayo–Matobo road has brought relief to motorists, transport operators and tourism businesses, reducing travel times as well as improving access to the Matobo National Park and surrounding attractions.
For years, travellers using the route endured delays, vehicle breakdowns and high maintenance costs because of its poor condition.
The upgraded road is now easing movement between Bulawayo and the Matobo tourism corridor, while creating fresh prospects for businesses that depend on visitor traffic.
The road was rehabilitated under the government’s legacy projects program ahead of this year’s Independence Day celebrations, which were hosted at Maphisa growth point in Matabeleland South in April.
Tourism operator Bruce Khumalo said the improved road network was expected to stimulate activity in the hospitality sector by making Matobo more accessible to domestic and international visitors.
“Good roads are a catalyst for development. With easier access to Matobo, we expect increased visitor numbers and greater business for tourism operators,” said Khumalo.
Transport operators have also welcomed the development, noting that the road’s previous condition had increased operating costs through frequent breakdowns and vehicle repairs.
Skumbuzo Mafa, a transport operator plying the route, said the rehabilitation had made journeys safer, faster and more viable for operators.
“The route is now easier and safer to use. Previously, breakdowns and repairs were common, but the improved road has reduced those costs and improved the profitability of the route,” he said.
Residents said the upgrade has also encouraged more transport operators to service the area, resulting in more affordable fares.
Mavis Ncube of Matobo said competition among operators had lowered transport costs for commuters, while calling for regular maintenance to preserve the investment.
“Fares have become more reasonable because more operators are now using the route. It is important that the road is maintained so that it does not deteriorate again,” she said.
The Bulawayo–Matobo road forms part of the government’s broader Legacy Projects program, which focuses on rehabilitating and developing key infrastructure in provinces selected to host national Independence Day celebrations.
In Matabeleland South, the program has seen attention directed towards roads and other public infrastructure around Maphisa and the wider Matobo area.
The projects are intended to leave lasting economic and social benefits beyond the commemorations by improving connectivity, supporting tourism, strengthening trade and widening access to essential services.
For Matobo, whose tourism appeal is anchored by the Matobo National Park, cultural heritage sites and distinctive granite landscapes, better road access is expected to make the destination more competitive and bring benefits to local communities and businesses.
New Ziana
