By Leonnel Mhuka
This incident occurred in Chikomba, near Manzou Dip Tank, where a newly constructed bridge, built by a company operating under government directive and sponsorship, has been washed away by flooding.
In the video, a local community leader, Mr Mungoni expresses concern that the unnamed company responsible for the project failed to deliver quality work, alleging that the bridge was constructed below acceptable standards. He claims the company effectively scammed the community by delivering substandard infrastructure.
More alarmingly, the Mungoni reveals that some building materials were returned unused. He questions whether these materials were legitimately returned to the contractor or instead shared among local leaders, raising serious concerns about accountability and possible corruption.
Zimbabwe has been severely affected by flooding not only due to heavy rainfall, but also because the government has failed to implement adequate preventative and mitigation measures to protect communities. Despite having sufficient resources to build durable, modern infrastructure capable of withstanding extreme weather, authorities continue to commission low-quality projects at inflated costs, suggesting systemic looting of public funds.
This pattern is evident nationwide, with poor drainage systems in urban areas also contributing significantly to flooding and infrastructure failure.
Notably, this area is the home district of the late Air Chief Marshal Perrance Shiri. The current Member of Parliament is Hon. Tatenda Mavetera, who also serves as a cabinet minister, raising further questions about oversight, responsibility and the prioritisation of public safety in government-led projects.
