By A Correspondent

President Emmerson Mnangagwa once again found himself taking over ministerial duties typically performed by other officials. On Thursday, the President traveled from Harare to Shurugwi to officiate at the commissioning of the newly upgraded Shurugwi-Mhandamabwe Road. Ordinarily, such a task would fall under the purview of the Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, but Mnangagwa’s involvement raises questions about the role of the Minister in overseeing infrastructure projects.

At the event, President Mnangagwa spoke about the importance of infrastructure development, stating that “the country will continue to score major milestones in infrastructure development, by harnessing deliberate policies enunciated by the Second Republic.” He emphasized that such projects are central to the vision of the current administration, which has focused heavily on improving Zimbabwe’s national road network.

The Shurugwi-Mhandamabwe Road, which had been in poor condition for years, has been transformed into a modern, multi-million dollar road. The project, which involved widening the road and other extensive upgrades, is expected to alleviate traffic congestion and improve connectivity. Notably, this road links the Beitbridge Border Post with towns like Gweru and Kwekwe, offering a new route that avoids the previously winding path through Masvingo.

Mnangagwa was pleased to highlight the significance of the road’s completion for the Midlands province, commenting, “Look at the development which is there now, in the 40s we would say there is one secondary school in one district. I’m very happy that this development was registered under the Second Republic.” He further noted his pride in the ongoing progress, emphasizing the trajectory of the country’s infrastructure under his administration.

As Mnangagwa continues to step into roles beyond his presidential duties, one might wonder about the specific responsibilities of the Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development. Why is the President personally handling tasks traditionally managed by other cabinet members, such as the commissioning of a key infrastructure project?