By Staff Reporter
Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure Development is stepping up efforts to promote gender equality in the road construction sector. Deputy Minister Joshua Sacco has called on contractors to provide equal opportunities for women in all roles, including those traditionally dominated by men.
Speaking during a media tour of the Masvingo-Beitbridge road construction project, Sacco highlighted the ministry’s ongoing commitment to inclusive development in the sector.
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“It’s important to make it clear that contractors must ensure both male and female workers have equal access to opportunities on site,” Sacco said. “We want to see women driving heavy machinery and leading construction teams.”
At the same event, Sacco’s remarks were echoed by Engineer Joy Makumbe, Permanent Secretary of the Transport Ministry, who stressed the importance of embracing women’s skills in infrastructure development.
“Women bring fresh perspectives and valuable skills. It’s time we fully recognize their potential,” Makumbe said. “An inclusive workforce enhances productivity and innovation, and the completion of projects like the Mucheke River Bridge will not only ease traffic congestion in Masvingo but also make the business environment more efficient.”
The Mucheke River Bridge project, overseen by Masimba Holdings Limited, is now 88% complete, marking a significant milestone in efforts to alleviate traffic flow in and around Masvingo. The bridge is expected to be fully operational by November.
Engineer Malvern Mnemo, Masimba Holdings’ Contract Manager, praised the contributions of women workers on the site, noting their essential role in the project’s progress.
“We’ve had hardworking women involved at various stages of the Mucheke River Bridge construction, and their efforts have been integral to getting us to this point,” Mnemo said.
Female workers at the site have welcomed the Ministry’s gender-inclusive approach, which they say has empowered them in a historically male-dominated industry.
Joyce Mazorodze-Chidziwo, 35, shared her experience: “This initiative has shown that we too can have equal access to employment. It’s not just talk anymore, it’s real change.”
Virginia Zongo, 40, echoed her sentiment, saying that the opportunity to work on the project has made a significant impact on her family’s financial stability.
“These jobs have transformed our livelihoods, allowing us to support our families while contributing to the country’s economic growth,” Zongo said.
