Bitumen World has become a widely recognized name in Matabeleland North province(in Western Zimbabwe) after the recent announcement of its partnership with authorities to upgrade the Beitbridge-Bulawayo-Victoria Falls Road, aimed at ensuring smooth traffic flow.

The government has recently revealed its immediate plans to overhaul this major highway as part of efforts to restore efficient traffic movement, which had previously been disrupted by deteriorating road conditions. The project involves the modernization, rehabilitation, widening, and dualization of various sections of the Beitbridge-Bulawayo-Victoria Falls Road through a public-private partnership with Bitumen World (Pvt) Ltd, operating under a design, build, operate, and transfer agreement, according to Jenfan Muswere, the Minister of Information, Publicity, and Broadcasting Services.

During a press briefing after a recent cabinet meeting, Muswere shared that discussions focused on the project’s construction plans and emphasized the importance of giving priority to this initiative. He also mentioned that other roads, including the Kwekwe-Nkayi-Lupane Road, Bulawayo-Nkayi Road, and the Karoi-Binga-Cross Dete Road, are set to be rebuilt simultaneously.

Felix Mhona, the Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, echoed the urgency of the roadworks, stating that the feasibility studies have already been completed and assuring the public that this is not just talk, but action. He emphasized the swift pace of construction to be expected, aligning with the government's initiative to collaborate closely with the private sector, as encouraged by President Mnangagwa. Mhona assured that noticeable progress on these roads will be seen shortly.

Bitumen World has already established a strong reputation in the country's road construction industry. Its previous involvement in Matabeleland North in 2023 was met with widespread approval, especially from those in the travel and tourism sector, who praised the company's high-quality and durable work. Motorists who have driven on the sections it repaired have noted the superior craftsmanship and longevity of the repairs compared to other projects.

The Beitbridge-Bulawayo-Victoria Falls Road has long been in need of major reconstruction, having exceeded its lifespan and becoming riddled with potholes, negatively affecting travel and tourism. The planned rehabilitation of the Kwekwe-Nkayi-Lupane Road is also anticipated to cut the distance between Victoria Falls and Kwekwe by approximately 100 kilometers, as current routes take travelers through Bulawayo, which adds unnecessary time and effort. The Karoi-Binga-Cross Dete Road, too, has faced its share of complaints from those in the tourism industry due to its poor condition. The proposed shorter route from Karoi to Binga, covering around 350 kilometers, offers a significant improvement compared to the current longer route through Bulawayo, which is over 500 kilometers.

The re-engagement of Bitumen World for the much-needed refurbishment of the Victoria Falls-Bulawayo-Beitbridge Road is expected to be a major boost for both tourism operators and regular travelers. It seems only a matter of time before this long-awaited project becomes a reality.