Zimbabweans have recently witnessed remarkable acts of generosity from some of the country’s wealthiest businesspeople. Prominent figures such as Paul Tungwarara, Wicknell Chivayo, Scott Sakupwanya, Kudakwashe Tagwirei, and others in Zimbabwe’s growing circle of millionaires have made headlines for donating vehicles, cash, and other valuable gifts to individuals and organisations.
These acts of philanthropy have been widely celebrated, bringing joy and transforming lives. For many recipients, a new vehicle or financial support represents an opportunity they may never have imagined possible.
However, as a nation, we must also ask an important question: how can these resources create lasting benefits for the greatest number of people?
The reality is that many of the vehicles being gifted are joining roads that are in a state of serious disrepair. Across Harare and its surrounding areas, poorly maintained roads have become a daily challenge and, increasingly, a deadly hazard.
Potholes, damaged road surfaces, inadequate drainage systems, and neglected infrastructure are causing accidents, injuries, and unnecessary loss of life. Every day, motorists face costly tyre punctures, cracked windscreens, damaged shock absorbers, broken suspension systems, and increased vehicle maintenance expenses.
These challenges affect everyone — private motorists, public transport operators, emergency services, businesses, and pedestrians alike.
As custodians of Harare and the surrounding areas, we, the Mbari clan, descendants of King Mbari and the ancestral owners and former rulers of this land, respectfully appeal to Zimbabwe’s business leaders, philanthropists, local authorities, and government institutions to prioritise investment in road infrastructure.
While individual gifts undoubtedly change lives, repairing and maintaining roads creates a lasting legacy that benefits entire communities.
Improved roads would:
Save lives by reducing accidents and road-related fatalities.
Lower transport and vehicle maintenance costs for families and businesses.
Preserve the value of vehicles already on our roads.
Improve access to schools, hospitals, workplaces, and markets.
Support economic growth by facilitating trade and investment.
Enhance the beauty, functionality, and dignity of our capital city.
Public-private partnerships can play a critical role in achieving this vision. Zimbabwe’s business community has repeatedly demonstrated its ability to mobilise resources and deliver meaningful change. By collaborating with local authorities and relevant government agencies, these leaders can help restore Harare’s roads and create a positive impact that extends far beyond individual beneficiaries.
Road infrastructure is not merely about convenience; it is about safety, economic development, and national pride.
The call is simple: let us complement acts of individual generosity with investments that uplift entire communities.
A well-maintained road serves thousands of people every day. It helps workers reach their jobs safely, enables children to travel to school, allows businesses to operate efficiently, and ensures emergency services can respond quickly when lives are at risk.
Together, let us make choices that create sustainable benefits for all Zimbabweans.
We hope this appeal will be heard and acted upon, so that Harare can become a safer, more connected, and more prosperous city for present and future generations. -Harare Mbari Heritage
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