Public Private Partnership in Zimbabwe: A Game-Changer for Infrastructural Development
Upgrade and Modernisation of the Chirundu One Stop Border Post
Private Public Partnership in Zimbabwe is vital towards development of Zimbabwe as a whole. Therefore, the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development has embarked on a groundbreaking Public Private Partnership (PPP) with the Chirundu Border Consortium, a Zimbabwean registered company to upgrade and modernise the Chirundu One Stop Border Post. This strategic partnership is a testament to the government’s commitment to leveraging PPPs to drive infrastructural development in Zimbabwe.
Background for the need of a One Stop Border Post
The Chirundu One Stop Border Post is a critical trade facilitation point between Zimbabwe and Zambia, handling a significant volume of cargo and passenger traffic. However, the border post has faced challenges, including congestion, outdated infrastructure and inefficient processes. To address these challenges, the government has turned to PPPs, recognising their potential to unlock private sector investment and expertise.
The Partnership towards a One Stop Border Post
The Private Public Partnership in Zimbabwe between the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development and the Chirundu Border Consortium aims to upgrade and modernise the border post. Therefore, this enhances its efficiency, safety and capacity. The project involves the construction of new infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and buildings as well as the installation of modern ICT systems.
Additionally, the Project will be implemented under the Build, Operate, Own and Transfer model over a period of 20 years. In line with Government policy of supporting a private sector-led economy, Chirundu Border Consortium will fully supply the required funds to cover the estimated project cost which amounts to US$66.8 million.
Benefits of the Partnership
Moreover, the upgrade and modernisation of the Chirundu One Stop Border Post is expected to have far-reaching benefits. These will include an improvement in efficiency and reducing congestion as well as enhancing safety and security. Also, an increase in trade facilitation and competitiveness is expected. Furthermore, job creation and economic growth will be part of these benefits. Last but not least, some of the perks of this partnership are improved revenue collection and public-private sector collaboration.
Furthermore, it will supplement the improved efficiency at the Beitbridge Border Post and the
upgraded Beitbridge-Harare-Chirundu highway. This will improve the movement of transit traffic, thereby making this route the most preferred along the North-South Corridor.
Also, it will enable the improved connectedness of Zimbabwe to the region. This will position the country to benefit from the African Continental Free Trade Area resulting from Zimbabwe moving goods much faster in the region than before. Finally, this initiative will create employment opportunities for surrounding communities.
Public Private Partnership in Zimbabwe
This project demonstrates the government’s commitment to PPPs as a key driver of infrastructural development in Zimbabwe. PPPs offer numerous benefits, including leveraging private sector investment and expertise. Also, improving service delivery and efficiency as well as enhancing much needed public-private sector collaboration. Additionally, it also reduces the financial burden on government.
Conclusion
The upgrade and modernisation of the Chirundu One Stop Border Post through a PPP is a significant milestone in Zimbabwe’s infrastructural development journey. This project showcases the potential of PPPs to transform critical infrastructure and drive economic growth. As the government continues to embrace PPPs, Zimbabwe can expect to see more innovative solutions to its infrastructural challenges.
