Zimbabwe is in the final stages of preparation to host the 44th Southern African Development Community (SADC) Heads of State Summit, slated for August 2024. This pivotal event will see President Emmerson Mnangagwa assume the chairmanship of the regional bloc, marking a significant moment for the country.
Major Infrastructure Developments Underway
Key Road Rehabilitation Projects
The Zimbabwean government has prioritized the rehabilitation of three main access roads leading to the New Parliament Building in Mt Hampden: Harare-Chirundu Road, Harare-Kanyemba Road, and Old Mazowe Road. According to the cabinet briefing on July 16, 2024, these projects are 90% complete and on track for a July 30, 2024, completion date.
- Harare-Chirundu Road: The works include construction, landscaping, and street lighting from Julius Nyerere Street to the Westgate Traffic Circle. The project aims to enhance accessibility and aesthetic appeal, contributing to a positive impression for summit attendees.
- Harare-Kanyemba Road: This project involves dualization, widening, upgrading, reconstruction, rehabilitation, street lighting, and landscaping from Nemakonde Road to Mvurwi Turn-Off. The improvements are expected to facilitate smoother traffic flow and better connectivity.
- Old Mazowe Road: Construction and landscaping are being carried out from the Westgate Traffic Circle to the New Parliament Building. This includes the Loop Road and New Parliament Boulevard Road to Bindura Road intersection, ensuring seamless access to the summit venue.
Enhancing Greater Harare’s Infrastructure
In addition to these main projects, the government is rehabilitating 37 roads in the Greater Harare area, linking Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport to the city and Mt Hampden. This comprehensive effort underscores the commitment to ensuring the city’s infrastructure meets the needs of the high-profile summit.
A Symbol of Pan-African Unity: The Museum of African Liberation
A notable highlight of the summit preparations is the construction of the Museum of African Liberation. The museum is poised to become a significant cultural landmark, celebrating the continent’s rich history and the liberation movements that shaped its nations. President Mnangagwa is expected to hand over the museum to SADC leaders during the summit.
Final Preparations at the State Pavilion
Rehabilitation works at the State Pavilion at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport are also progressing well, with an expected completion date of July 30, 2024. This ensures that Zimbabwe will offer a warm and organized welcome to all visiting dignitaries.
Zimbabwe’s Commitment to Regional Leadership
President Mnangagwa’s upcoming chairmanship of SADC is a testament to Zimbabwe’s active role in regional affairs. The meticulous preparation for the summit reflects the country’s dedication to fostering regional cooperation and development. “Our commitment to hosting this summit is unwavering,” stated President Mnangagwa. “We are ready to showcase Zimbabwe’s capabilities and hospitality to the region.”
Regional and International Implications
The successful hosting of the SADC Summit will have significant regional and international implications. It positions Zimbabwe as a central player in SADC and highlights its potential as a hub for regional diplomacy and cooperation. Analysts suggest that the infrastructure improvements could have lasting benefits, enhancing the country’s economic prospects and attractiveness to investors .
Conclusion
As Zimbabwe prepares to welcome SADC leaders, the nation stands ready to demonstrate its resilience, hospitality, and commitment to regional unity. The 44th SADC Heads of State Summit promises to be a milestone event, reflecting the spirit of collaboration and progress that defines the Southern African region.
