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MWENEZI- Mwenezi district is accelerating a major infrastructure drive as it prepares to host the national Independence Day celebrations in 2027, with roads, water, and service delivery projects earmarked to leave a lasting legacy.
Leading the preparations, Mwenezi Rural District Council (MRDC) District Engineer Philip Madenga said the national event presents a unique opportunity to fast-track development that has been delayed for years.
At the center of the push is the rehabilitation of the district’s 995km road network.
Madenga said the engineering department has prioritized routine maintenance to ensure all routes are safe and accessible ahead of the celebrations and beyond.
“From the 995km road network in the district, this year we have managed to maintain at least 225km, which is about 20 percent. This is a good improvement in routine maintenance. Previously we did 199km, though our target is around 400km,” he said.
The department is currently operating with limited equipment, including just one grader.
However, Madenga confirmed procurement plans for additional machinery are underway to meet annual targets.
Beyond Roads, Water, Waste Management and Schools,
the Independence preparations are also unlocking progress in other areas.
New refuse collection schedules have been introduced in Rutenga and Neshuro growth points.
The engineering unit is overseeing construction and rehabilitation of classroom blocks in more than 120 schools across the district.
Mwenezi currently has 900 functional boreholes across its 18 wards. Due to its status as a resettlement area with growing demand, the council is targeting 1,200 boreholes district-wide.
“The district currently boasts 900 functional boreholes. However, Mwenezi is largely a resettlement area, and our vision is to have at least 1,200 boreholes for the entire district,” Madenga said.
Despite challenges of equipment shortages and heavy workloads, council officials say hosting the 2027 Independence celebrations has become a catalyst for resource mobilization.
Madenga and his team of permanent staff and community-based workers are also driving the council’s goal of achieving minimum service delivery standards by 2030.
“As the countdown to 2027 continues, Mwenezi is proving that national events can serve as powerful springboards for sustainable regional growth,” Madenga noted.
The council hopes the upgrades will leave residents with modern infrastructure, improved services, and better livelihoods long after the celebrations.
