Viral 'Victoria Falls highway pothole' sparks online uproar

Viral ‘Victoria Falls highway pothole’ sparks online uproar

A viral photo of a massive pothole believed to be near Victoria Falls has sparked global reactions about Zimbabwe’s road infrastructure.

Zimbabwe’s Transport Ministry denies claims that the pothole is on the Bulawayo-Victoria Falls Highway. Image via X @cozwva

A viral photo of three people posing inside a massive pothole has put Zimbabwe in the global spotlight, drawing widespread criticism and concern.

The image, which many believed was taken on the Bulawayo-Victoria Falls Highway, has triggered outrage over the country’s deteriorating road conditions and their potential impact on tourism.

Potholes: A Blow to Zimbabwe’s Tourism Image?

Victoria Falls is one of Africa’s most iconic natural wonders, attracting thousands of visitors each year. However, the circulation of this pothole image has raised alarms about the road conditions leading to the world-famous site. Critics argue that poor infrastructure not only endangers lives but also tarnishes Zimbabwe’s reputation as a top travel destination.

Social media users have expressed frustration, with many highlighting the dangers posed by deteriorating roads. Some have even questioned the government’s commitment to maintaining critical transport routes, particularly those leading to key economic hubs.

@nyoni_ilos: “This dilapidated road is now a threat to tourism.Its clear that the relevant ministry is not taking its rehabilitation as a priority. I don’t think it’s correct to say it’s a tourist attraction”

@Bhekibhehane: “The road is extremely in a bad state . Beyond embarrassing cldnt believe it. Sorry about Zimbabwe , something is not right …”

@SirWinnyLyone: “These are no longer potholes. They are potpits”

Government Dismisses The Pothole Photo as Misleading

Amid the uproar, Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development has dismissed claims that the pothole in question is located on the Bulawayo-Victoria Falls Highway. In an official statement, the ministry acknowledged the poor state of some road sections but refuted the viral post’s authenticity.

“It has come to our attention that a social media post is circulating, showing three people posing in a pothole on a road claimed to be part of the Bulawayo-Victoria Falls Highway. While we acknowledge that certain sections of the highway are in dire need of rehabilitation, the images in the post do not correspond to any section of the Bulawayo-Victoria Falls Highway,” the ministry stated.

The statement further explained that teams are actively repairing roads in Hwange, Halfway, and Insiza. They are working to restore damaged sections and improve infrastructure.

Public Skepticism and the Bigger Issue

Despite the government’s clarification, skepticism remains. Many Zimbabweans feel that whether or not the photo is from the Bulawayo-Victoria Falls route, the reality of crumbling roads cannot be ignored. Travelers frequently report encountering treacherous potholes on major highways, often leading to vehicle damage and accidents.