By Nevanji Munyaradzi Chiondegwa
Harare – As the 44th SADC Heads of State and Government Summit approaches, Zimbabwe has been working diligently to prepare for the prestigious event. This was announced by the country’s Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr. Jenfan Muswere, during a post-Cabinet media address.
According to Dr. Muswere, Cabinet received an update report on the preparations for the summit, as presented by Vice President Gen. (Rtd.) Dr. C.G.D.N. Chiwenga.
Infrastructure and Accessibility a Top Priority
The government has prioritized infrastructure development and accessibility to ensure a seamless experience for visiting dignitaries. All three main access routes to the New Parliament Building, the summit venue, have been completed, including the Harare-Chirundu, Harare-Kanyemba, and New Parliament Roads. Notably, the Harare-Kanyemba Road section between Harare Drive and Eskbank tollgate, including the Gwebi River Bridge, was opened to traffic on August 7th, 2024. Furthermore, President Emmerson Mnangagwa officially opened the Boulevard on August 9th, 2024.
Enhancing Key Locations
The Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport has undergone significant upgrades, with the completion of a new VVIP Lounge and a dedicated VVIP Pavilion access road. The Airport Road has been remarked and repainted, damaged kerbstones replaced, and the Air Zimbabwe hangar has been given a fresh coat of paint.
A City Adorned
Harare is undergoing a city-wide beautification project to welcome guests. The Airport Road is now adorned with palm trees, lush lawns, and vibrant flowers, setting the stage for a warm welcome. Similar efforts are being made across major access roads, and the City of Harare is expediting the installation of traffic lights at key intersections and street lighting along major roads.
Ensuring Seamless Operations
To guarantee a smooth and efficient summit, several measures have been implemented, including:
Uninterrupted power supply to the New Parliament Building through a dedicated 11kV feeder line and a newly installed 4MVA, 33/11kV transformer.
Reliable high-speed internet connectivity at Parliament and all official summit venues, including international airports, provided by three dedicated internet service providers.
Ample water supply through a newly constructed 2.8 megalitre water reservoir and 14 boreholes.
Comprehensive medical facilities, with clinics set up at Parliament and additional clinics equipped with ambulances and fire tenders.
Showcasing SADC Culture and Collaboration
The summit will also be an opportunity to celebrate the region’s rich cultural heritage and foster collaboration. Preparations are underway for the 7th SADC Public Lecture at the University of Zimbabwe, with international panelists confirmed. The National Gallery of Zimbabwe will host an exhibition titled “Innovate SADC: Transformation in Southern Africa through the Arts,” featuring artifacts from 14 SADC countries.
Zimbabwe Ready to Welcome SADC
With meticulous planning and efficient execution, Zimbabwe is prepared to host a successful and memorable 44th SADC Heads of State and Government Summit. The Executive SADC Secretary has already arrived in the country, and the Senior Officials Meetings commenced on August 8th, 2024. Zimbabwe, assuming the chairmanship from Angola, is ready to welcome all SADC member states to Harare for this significant event.
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