New Parliament Building in Mt Hampden
By Vincent Kaseke
Zimbabwe is fully prepared to host the SADC Summit, with most preparations now complete, following dedicated efforts across various sectors to ensure a top-tier summit experience.
Vice President Constantino Dominic Guvheya Nyikadzino Chiwenga confirmed this during a Cabinet briefing yesterday.
Zimbabwe will host the 44th SADC Heads of State and Government Summit on August 17-18 at the New Parliament Building in Mt Hampden where the 16 member states are expected to deliberate on issues affecting the region.
VP Chiwenga gave an update on the preparation pointing to the completion of key infrastructure, including roads, ports of entry, street lights, accommodation, and power supply.
“The Harare-Chirundu, Harare-Kanyemba Road, and New Parliament Roads are finished, ensuring smooth access to the summit venue.
“The VVIP Lounge at the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport is complete and equipped with the necessary facilities. The VVIP Pavilion access road is finished, and the painting of barriers and the Air Zimbabwe hangar has also been completed,” said the Vice President.
He added that Harare City has completed the installation of traffic lights at key intersections, street lighting on major roads, and hoisting of flags on light poles. City beautification efforts are ongoing, with work on Airport Road completed, including the planting of palm trees, lawns, and flowers along major roads.
Guests representing various portfolios have already arrived, and several preparatory meetings have taken place ahead of the major event.
“Regarding the summit proceedings, the Executive SADC Secretary arrived in the country on August 6, 2024, and the Senior Officials Meetings started on August 8, 2024, with Zimbabwe taking over the chairmanship from the outgoing Chair, Angola. All SADC countries will participate, and the Government is ready to host the Summit,” said the Vice President.
The Government has also assured that measures have been taken to guarantee an uninterrupted electricity supply during the summit. Despite the current power deficit and load shedding issues, steps have been taken to ensure reliable power.
“The New Parliament will have uninterrupted power, thanks to the construction of an 11kV Dedicated Feeder and the installation and commissioning of a 4MVA, 33/11kV transformer,” said VP Chiwenga.
In terms of accommodation, VP Chiwenga confirmed that all designated facilities at Parliament are set up, with additional clinics to be opened.