In 2025, Zimbabwe is experiencing a renewed wave of infrastructure development backed by both government-led initiatives and public-private partnerships (PPPs). These major construction projects present lucrative opportunities for investors, construction firms, contractors, and service providers. With growing demand in energy, transport, real estate, and water infrastructure, the construction sector is positioned to play a central role in Zimbabwe’s economic transformation.

Key Infrastructure Projects Driving Construction in 2025

1. Road Network Expansion and Rehabilitation

One of the top priorities for government infrastructure is upgrading the national road network. Several major road projects are being fast-tracked under PPPs, including:

  • Harare‑Masvingo‑Beitbridge Highway: The remaining 88 km of this vital corridor will be completed, creating stronger links between Harare and South Africa.
  • Harare‑Chirundu Road: Rehabilitation and upgrading of this route will improve trade access to Zambia.
  • Beitbridge‑Bulawayo‑Victoria Falls Road: Upgrades including mini‑interchanges and bridge works are planned to support tourism and cross-border trade.
  • Interchange Projects in Harare: New interchanges, including the Mbudzi Interchange, are being constructed to decongest traffic and improve urban mobility.

These projects provide significant opportunities for construction contractors, civil engineers, and suppliers of materials and equipment.

2. Water Infrastructure: Dams and Irrigation

Water infrastructure is another major focus in 2025:

  • Lake Gwayi‑Shangani Dam: Construction is underway to secure water for urban use, agriculture, and climate resilience.
  • Kunzvi Dam: Targeted for completion to boost water supply in Harare, the project will also support irrigation and sanitation improvements.

These water projects will create work for civil contractors, hydrological engineers, and suppliers of water pumps, pipes, and treatment systems.

3. Renewable Energy and Power Projects

The energy sector is a key driver of construction activity in Zimbabwe:

  • Hwange Thermal Power Plant Refurbishment: A major refurbishment of six aging units at Hwange power station is ongoing, involving extensive construction and plant engineering.
  • Victoria Falls Solar Power Station: A 100 MW solar farm is under development in Matabeleland North.
  • Distributed Solar Mini-Grids: The government plans to build 100 rural solar mini-grids targeting schools, clinics, and government offices.

Construction companies experienced in solar panel installation, grid interconnection, and civil works stand to benefit significantly.

4. Real Estate and Residential Development

Zimbabwe’s urban and residential construction sector is also booming:

  • Pokugara Residential Estate: Luxury homes and communal amenities, including clubhouses and landscaped leisure areas, are under development.
  • CBD Redevelopment: Redevelopment of Harare’s Central Business District into modern multi-story residential and office blocks is planned.
  • Dombotombo Walk-Up Flats: New residential flats are being constructed in Marondera and Beitbridge to address housing shortages.

These real estate developments open doors to construction firms, architects, interior designers, and material suppliers.

5. Public Buildings and Sports Infrastructure

There are several high-profile public construction projects underway:

  • National Sports Stadium Renovation: Renovations aim to upgrade facilities and increase capacity.
  • Zimbabwe International Trade Fair Redevelopment: Redevelopment includes convention centers, office blocks, hotels, and exhibition areas.
  • Industrial Special Economic Zones: Zones like the Beitbridge industrial park include steel production, power generation, and other industrial infrastructure.

These public construction projects are ideal for engineering firms, PPP investors, and construction professionals.

Strategic Sectors & Investment Opportunities

Several strategic opportunities emerge from these projects:

  • Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs): Many projects are implemented under PPPs, creating collaboration opportunities for contractors and investors.
  • Green and Sustainable Construction: Solar projects and energy-efficient buildings favor companies with eco-friendly construction expertise.
  • Affordable Housing: There is high demand for mid-to-low-income housing developments.
  • Special Economic Zones (SEZs): Industrial zones offer infrastructure and factory construction opportunities.
  • Water Infrastructure: Engineers and contractors are needed for dam, pipeline, and irrigation projects.
  • Sports and Public Venues: Large-scale stadiums and event facilities require specialized construction expertise.

Risks and Challenges for Construction Investors

Potential investors should be aware of challenges:

  • Economic Volatility: Inflation and currency fluctuations may affect project profitability.
  • Financing Constraints: Securing capital for large-scale construction projects can be difficult.
  • Regulatory Hurdles: Permits, environmental approvals, and procurement processes may slow projects.
  • Local Contractor Capacity: Limited capacity among local firms may affect execution.
  • Supply Chain Issues: Sourcing materials locally can be challenging, increasing reliance on imports.

Tips for Construction Firms and Investors

  1. Partner with local firms to navigate regulations and market dynamics.
  2. Leverage PPPs to share risk and access government-backed projects.
  3. Target niche areas like renewable energy, water infrastructure, and SEZ development.
  4. Hire local engineers and environmental specialists to streamline approvals.
  5. Plan financial models to mitigate currency risk.
  6. Stay updated on government infrastructure plans and tender announcements.

Conclusion

Zimbabwe’s construction sector in 2025 offers significant opportunities across roads, water, energy, real estate, and public infrastructure. Contractors, developers, and investors who align with government projects, prioritize sustainability, and form strategic partnerships can benefit greatly. Success requires careful planning, regulatory compliance, and market awareness to navigate challenges and capitalize on Zimbabwe’s infrastructure growth.