By Violet Mashonga
Mashonaland West Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Marian Chombo, has praised the ongoing rehabilitation of the 45-kilometre Poverty Valley Road, describing it as a model of public-private partnership.
The road, which links Chinhoyi, Mhangura, and Raffingora, is being rehabilitated through a collaboration between local farmers and Lomugundi Quarry Mine, owned by Brandpole Private Limited.
Speaking during a tour of the project at Nyamugomba Village in Makonde District, Chombo said the initiative aligned with government’s Vision 2030 and the devolution agenda.
“Let’s all work together under the mantra ‘leave no one, no place behind.’ Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo — this land is built by its people. We are seeing people building their own road. Keep it up,” she said.
Executive Chairman of Brandpole Private Limited, Brian Bangira, said the company was committed to supporting local development.
“This is not a one-day or one-year project. We will invest a lot in this area, and it’s not just about the road. We are committed to making a lasting impact. The target is to complete the road within three months,” he said.
Local leaders and farmers welcomed the development, saying it would ease transport costs and improve access to markets.
“We pay US$10 to travel to and from Chinhoyi. It is a burden to the community and farmers, who even struggle to sell their products. This project will lessen our burden,” said Village Head Ngwarai Mutsvangwa.
Councillor Moses Nyamupondo, who helped mobilise farmers to partner with the mine, said the project would benefit the wider community.
The Poverty Valley Road has long been a challenge for farmers transporting produce to markets and for residents seeking access to schools and healthcare facilities.
