HARARE – In an unexpected announcement, the Zimbabwean government has revealed that the Mbudzi Traffic Interchange, a major infrastructure project nearing completion in Harare, will be officially named the “Trabablas Interchange” in honour of President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
The announcement was made during a Cabinet briefing on Monday, with officials hailing the President’s “visionary guidance” in spearheading infrastructure development projects across the country.
The unusual name – “Trabablas Interchange” – sparked widespread reactions, with critics and members of the public questioning its origin and significance. Government spokesperson Nick Mangagwa explained that the name is symbolic of the President’s efforts to bring “tangible progress” to Zimbabwe’s transport network. “This name encapsulates the essence of visionary leadership and hard work. Under President Mnangagwa, our nation is witnessing transformative projects that will benefit generations to come,” Mutsvangwa said.
The Mbudzi Traffic Interchange, situated at one of Harare’s busiest intersections along the Harare-Beitbridge Highway, is one of the flagship projects under Zimbabwe’s infrastructure modernisation programme. Once completed, the multi-million-dollar project is expected to alleviate congestion, improve road safety, and facilitate smoother trade routes between Zimbabwe and its regional partners.
The announcement has, however, stirred debate among Zimbabweans. While government officials view the gesture as a tribute to the President’s contributions, opposition critics and social commentators have labelled it as another example of “ego politics” and misaligned priorities. “We are seeing more and more infrastructure being named after individuals instead of respecting the places and communities they serve,” one critic said.
The government’s move comes amidst growing concerns over the trend of renaming public infrastructure after political leaders. Earlier this year, Enterprise Road in Harare was renamed Emmerson Mnangagwa Road, a decision that also faced backlash from citizens who lamented the erasure of historical names and places.
Others, however, welcomed the new development. Supporters of the ruling ZANU-PF party praised the government for recognising President Mnangagwa’s role in advancing infrastructure projects. “This interchange is a symbol of progress. Under the Second Republic, we are witnessing real development, and it is fitting that it carries the name of our leader,” said a party supporter.
The construction of the Mbudzi Interchange is being undertaken by a consortium of local and international companies. Work began in 2022, and despite some delays caused by funding challenges, the project is now reportedly 80% complete. Transport and Infrastructure Development Minister Felix Mhona reiterated that the interchange will be commissioned in early 2025. “We are on track to deliver this project, which will have a significant impact on economic growth by facilitating the smooth movement of goods and people,” he said.
The interchange is part of a broader initiative to rehabilitate the country’s road network, particularly along trade corridors vital for regional commerce. The Harare-Beitbridge Highway, a key route linking Zimbabwe to South Africa, has been undergoing major upgrades to meet international standards.
The naming controversy underscores broader frustrations among citizens who feel that government priorities do not align with the economic hardships they face. While infrastructure development is welcomed, many have expressed concerns over unemployment, rising living costs, and poor service delivery in other critical sectors such as health and education.
As the Mbudzi Interchange edges closer to completion, the debate over its name is likely to persist. Whether viewed as a fitting tribute or a political stunt, “Trabablas Interchange” has certainly captured public attention.
