The announcement has sparked widespread public outrage, with many citizens questioning the accuracy and necessity of such an exorbitant spend. Critics argue that the amount reported far exceeds the usual budget allocations for road maintenance, prompting allegations of corruption and financial mismanagement.
One Facebook user, Moses Madungwe, expressed shock at the figures, suggesting that the amount is “shocking” and accusing government officials of inflating costs. He noted that the US$1.7 billion figure is well over 350% of the ministry’s annual budget and even 30% more than the national budget. According to Madungwe, such a sum should be enough to cover all roads across the country, not just those utilized for the summit.
Madungwe further alleged that funds may have been misappropriated, comparing the purchase of palm trees, reportedly at US$500 each, while they are typically valued at much less. “1.7 [billion] should have been stolen,” he concluded, indicating strong suspicions of graft.
Another commenter, Shepherd Nyathi, echoed these concerns, questioning the accuracy of the report or the honesty of the ministry’s statements. Nyathi’s skepticism reflects a broader sentiment among Zimbabweans, many of whom have become disillusioned by repeated instances of corruption within the government.
### Government’s Stance on Infrastructure
