Maphisa district in Matabeleland South has been transformed into a hive of activity as Zimbabwe prepares to host this year’s 46th Independence celebrations with major infrastructure projects nearing completion in the once underdeveloped district.
From health facilities to aviation infrastructure, sports amenities and cultural preservation centres and roads, the area is undergoing a remarkable facelift that is set to leave a lasting legacy beyond the commemorations.
One of the standout developments is the construction of a stadium in Maphisa, which will host the main Independence celebrations.
The facility boasts a well-manicured lawn and is expected to become a key sporting hub in the region. Beyond the main event, the stadium will also host a high-profile football match between Highlanders FC and Scottland Football Club, adding to the excitement surrounding the celebrations.
In St Joseph, the government has undertaken significant projects of national and cultural importance. A house has been constructed at the rural homestead of the late Vice President Joshua Nkomo, honouring his legacy and contribution to Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle.
In addition, a youth vocational training centre is being built in the same area, aimed at equipping young people with practical skills for employment and entrepreneurship.
At Maphisa District Hospital, extensive renovations have breathed new life into the facility, improving working conditions for staff and service delivery for patients.
District Health Services Administrator Hebrow Sibanda said the upgrades covered critical sections of the hospital.
“Standing where we are right now is the administration block. This is one of the areas we have renovated ,the ceilings, painting, tiles, roofing and plumbing have all been replaced,” said Sibanda in an interview with CITE.
He noted that the hospital had previously been in a deteriorating state, posing risks to both staff and patients.
“It was a challenge. We were even fearing that the ceiling could fall on you at any time. Now the environment is clean and safe and that motivates us as workers.”
Renovations also extended to the nursing school, wards, kitchen and key service areas such as the mortuary and incinerator both of which had not been functional for over six years.
“The mortuary had not been working for more than six years. It has now been fully repaired and is functional with a capacity of nine bodies,” he said.
He added that the absence of a mortuary had placed a financial burden on families.
“It was difficult for the community because they had to rely on private mortuaries which are costly. Now this will ease that burden.”
Similarly, the hospital’s incinerator and kitchen facilities have been restored with new equipment installed to improve efficiency.
Meanwhile, at Kezi Rural Hospital, Sister-in-Charge Ellen Jiye said the facility is gradually returning to full operation after years of decline.
“The hospital had become dilapidated to the point where an old block had to be demolished. A new structure has now been built,” she said.
She highlighted the challenges faced during the period of limited functionality.
“It was difficult to provide adequate services and many patients had to travel to Maphisa for treatment.”
The hospital, originally built in 1948, serves over 1,000 people and had only been operating a maternity ward at full capacity before the recent upgrades.
“There is now renewed hope as the hospital steadily returns to full operation,” Jiye added.
In a move also expected to boost tourism and investment, an airstrip in the area, once abandoned is being rehabilitated ahead of the Independence celebrations.
Areas Roads Manager for Matobo, Bulilima and Mangwe districts, Ignatious Musekiwa said the project is progressing well.
“Initially, this airstrip was almost abandoned. We are rehabilitating it for the purposes of Independence but it will remain an important asset to the district,” he said.
The runway, measuring 30 by 1,300 metres is undergoing stabilisation and surfacing works.
“So far, we have covered 820 metres of stabilisation. By the 5th of next month, the airstrip should be complete and ready for landing.”
Musekiwa said the upgraded airstrip would play a key role beyond the celebrations.
“We expect tourists visiting Matopo National Park to use this facility. It will also cater for farmers, emergency landings and other aviation needs.”
Additional infrastructure, including a waiting area, guardroom and perimeter fencing is also being installed.
“This is a major asset. It will create employment and require a dedicated maintenance team,” he said.
Complementing the physical infrastructure is the construction of the Isizinda Cultural Centre, aimed at preserving and promoting Ndebele heritage.
Deputy Director in the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture for Matabeleland South, Promise Dube said the centre will serve as a hub for cultural education and artistic expression.
“The centre will provide a space for young people to appreciate Ndebele culture from its origins to modern-day practices,” he said.
The facility will showcase the evolution of traditional architecture, from beehive huts to contemporary structures.
“We want to demonstrate the progression of our cultural identity, showing where we come from and where we are today.”
It will also function as a platform for local artists.
“This will be a space for live art, exhibitions and showcasing finished products created by the community.”
Dube emphasised that the centre is not a temporary project.
“This is not just for Independence. It is a long-term investment that will be used daily, particularly in line with the heritage-based Education 5.0 curriculum.”
Schools such as Mahetshe and shashane have also benefitted as various buildings have been constructed the schools.
More than ten new buildings have been constructed at Mahetshe where the annual children ‘s party will be hosted.