HARARE – Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona says construction work on the Mbudzi Traffic Interchange in Harare is now 55 percent complete with the project set to be done by July 31 this year.
Addressing the media during a tour of the government funded project on Monday, Mhona said US$45 million has been used so far from a budget of US$$88 million earmarked for it.
The progress in the last 10 months ago in April last year is 10 percent.
Mhona said 42 out of 52 property owners whose buildings were affected by the construction have been paid a total US$14,8 million with US$14,9 million still to be disbursed.
He also revealed that 95 families that have been affected by the project were being relocated to Hatcliffe where new homes will be built for them.
The minister was accompanied during the media tour by his deputy Joshua Sacco, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Charles Tavengwa and senior government officials.
The touring party was led through the 15 bridges under construction.
“It is quite pleasing that finally we are here. What we are doing is not new. What you are seeing today has been happening time immemorial,” Mhona said.
He dismissed reports the money being used for the project has been squandered by some corrupt officials.
“We don’t have the so-called Mbudzi Interchange Compensation Fund. We are mobilising, and we communicate with the treasury if they are properties to be compensated.
“As we speak out of the 52, some 42 have been compensated partially and fully,” said.
