By Fanuel Chinowaita
Chavhanga, Ward 28, Mutasa North Constituency – February 14, 2025
Recent heavy rains have severely damaged Chavhanga Road, a critical artery for residents of Ward 28 in Mutasa North Constituency. The deteriorating condition of the road has disrupted daily life and livelihoods, prompting calls for urgent repairs.
However, a dispute has emerged between local traditional leaders and community members over who should take responsibility for the restoration efforts.
The road, which serves as a lifeline for most residents, has become nearly impassable, hindering access to markets, schools, and healthcare facilities. In response, traditional leaders, including Village Heads Mukambachaza, Chimuse, and Chavhanga, have urged community members to participate in road repairs.
However, some residents are refusing to cooperate, citing past grievances. They claim they previously contributed labor under a “Food for Work” program but never received the promised compensation. Frustrated by the lack of accountability, they are now demanding that the village heads and government officials, including Member of Parliament Nyambuya and Councillor Jacob Maya, take charge of the repairs.
“The road is essential for all of us, but we cannot keep working for free. We were promised food for our efforts last time, but nothing came of it. This time, the leaders and the government must step up,” said one resident, who chose to remain anonymous.
Traditional leaders, however, argue that community participation is crucial for timely repairs, especially in the absence of immediate government intervention. Village Head Mukambachaza emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “We cannot wait indefinitely for outside help. The road affects everyone, and we must come together to fix it.”
The standoff has left the road in a state of disrepair, exacerbating the challenges faced by Chavhanga residents. With the rainy season ongoing, fears are growing that the situation could worsen if no action is taken soon.
Efforts to reach MP Nyambuya and Councillor Maya for comment were unsuccessful at the time of publication.
Meanwhile, the community remains divided, with some residents calling for dialogue to resolve the impasse and others insisting on government intervention before they participate in any repair efforts.
As the debate continues, the condition of Chavhanga Road serves as a stark reminder of the broader infrastructure challenges facing rural communities and the need for sustainable solutions to address them.