Strengthening the PPP Framework for the Beitbridge – Harare Highway
CPCS, contracted by Infrastructure Development Bank of Zimbabwe (IDBZ), acted as co-transaction advisor to the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development of Zimbabwe in reviewing and strengthening the public-private partnership (PPP) structure for the Beitbridge–Harare Road project.
Safeguarding a strategic transport corridor
The Beitbridge–Harare Road is one of Zimbabwe’s most critical transport corridors, linking the country’s capital to the Beitbridge border post and serving as a key gateway for regional trade in Southern Africa.
Given its economic importance, the Government of Zimbabwe pursued the rehabilitation and upgrading of the corridor through a public-private partnership (PPP) arrangement. To ensure the robustness and sustainability of the transaction, CPCS was engaged as co-transaction advisor to review the existing framework and provide independent technical and financial assessment.
Reviewing risk exposure and contractual robustness
CPCS conducted a detailed review of the existing transaction and concession agreements to identify critical issues that required resolution prior to implementation. This work focused on assessing areas where the Government may have been exposed to financial, legal, or operational risks.
In parallel, CPCS evaluated compliance with conditions precedent under the PPP contract, including verification of financing arrangements, ensuring that contractual obligations and funding commitments were aligned with project realities.
Validating traffic forecasts and tolling assumptions
Traffic demand and toll revenue projections are central to the viability of any toll road PPP. CPCS reviewed the original feasibility study, with particular attention to traffic analysis and projections.
To strengthen the evidence base, updated traffic counts and willingness-to-pay surveys were conducted. These inputs enabled CPCS to revise traffic forecasts and assess the realism of projected revenue streams under the tolling strategy. This analysis provided a more robust foundation for evaluating financial sustainability and risk allocation within the concession structure.
Reinforcing environmental compliance
In addition to financial and contractual assessments, CPCS prepared a full Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) in accordance with national legislation. This replaced earlier environmental and social reviews and ensured that the project’s environmental compliance framework met regulatory requirements and international standards.
Enhancing PPP credibility and long-term viability
Through its advisory role, CPCS helped strengthen the analytical and contractual foundations of the Beitbridge–Harare Road PPP, which was later developed through an EPC model following fundamental review of the proposed PPP private partner.
If your government or transport authority is developing or reviewing a toll road PPP, CPCS can provide independent traffic validation, risk assessment, and transaction advisory services to strengthen project bankability and safeguard public interests. Contact us to learn how we support infrastructure transactions across emerging markets communications@cpcs.ca .
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