Johnson Progress.

Zimbabwe’s Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, Honourable Felix Tapiwa Mhona, officially opened the six-lane Norton Toll Plaza, marking a significant milestone in the country’s road infrastructure development.

The new toll plaza is expected to greatly ease traffic congestion, particularly ahead of the upcoming festive season, when traffic volumes traditionally increase along the Harare-Bulawayo highway.

According to Minister Mhona, the upgraded plaza represents a direct response to the increasing demands of Zimbabwe’s transport network.

“The revenue generated from this toll plaza will go directly into sustaining and improving our roads, ensuring that we have the resources to build the highways, bridges, and roads that will serve us for generations to come,” he said.

The Minister emphasized that tolling infrastructure is central to sustaining Zimbabwe’s road network, as toll fees directly fund maintenance and expansion works.

He added that the government plans to integrate technology, economic growth, and public safety into its national road network.

The expansion of the Norton Toll Plaza is part of the government’s efforts to modernize the country’s transport infrastructure.

“This is one step in a much longer journey towards a modern, efficient, and prosperous Zimbabwe,” he said.

The new toll plaza features modern payment systems and electronic tolling, which will enhance convenience, reduce waiting times, and minimize human interference in revenue collection.

Minister Mhona challenged the Zimbabwe National Road Administration (ZINARA) to transition towards All-Electronic Tolling (AET) systems, utilizing high-speed cameras, artificial intelligence, and RFID technology.

Minister of State for Mashonaland West Province, Honourable Marian Chombo, welcomed the development, stating that the introduction of e-tolling infrastructure would significantly reduce congestion and accidents.

The event was attended by members of the ZINARA Board of Directors and Executive, as well as other key stakeholders in the transport and infrastructure sector.

The government plans to replicate this model at other toll plazas across the country, with several others earmarked for transformation into modern toll plazas.

The upgraded Norton Toll Plaza is expected to have wider economic benefits, attracting businesses and boosting local economies, while improved traffic flow facilitates trade and regional connectivity.