Sigh of relief for Kisoro sub-counties sinking under derelict bridge

In Busanza and Kirundo Sub-counties of the southwestern district of Kisoro, citizens once proudly called it a bridge, Kanyamatekye Bridge.

They still call it a bridge, not because it still cuts the grade but rather for lack of a better word.

The semblance of what is left of Kanyamatekye Bridge after more than two years of disrepair is deplorable and, with it, the livelihoods of the people of Busanza and Kirundo sub-counties that it was supposed to connect.

The bridge - or what is left of it - situated in Gikoro Village has suffered serious damage for the past two years.

It is partially functional, posing risks to pedestrians and cyclists who continue to use it despite its precarious state.

It is this or nothing but long routes for the folks this side of the country.

But there is finally hope as the government has signed a contract for the reconstruction of bridge.

Locals such Jack Gakiza, Moses Nzeyimana, and several farmers, lament the difficulties they face in transporting agricultural produce to nearby markets.

With most bridges in the area inaccessible to vehicles and motorcycles carrying heavy loads, the transportation of goods and services has become increasingly challenging.

Gerald Bayisabe, a boda boda rider, expressed concerns about the safety of crossing the bridge, noting incidents where colleagues have fallen off and lost their lives.

The Nile Post could not independently verify the claims of lives lost here but residents cite up to 10 cases.

What is not in dispute is the fact that the sight of the derelict bridge is cringeworthy enough to send many into epileptic fit of horror - especially when it rains and the river is overflowing.

George Ndayambagye, chairman of LC1 Gikoro Village, criticised the government for neglecting the bridge, resulting in economic stagnation and hindrances to transportation for years.

He highlighted the plight of sick and pregnant women who struggle to access health services at Buhoozi Health Centre III in Buhoozi Parish due to difficulties posed by the bridge.

Ms Sarah Mateke Nyirabashitsi, the State minister for defence and veteran affairs and Woman MP for Kisoro, acknowledged the deplorable state of the bridge.

She assured the public that the government is taking action to address the issue, emphasising the significance of the bridge not only for agricultural purposes but also for security, as it connects three sub-counties.

“We have lost many people on this Kanyamateke Bridge, especially those who come not knowing that the bridge has a problem," the minister said.

"We tried closing it, but people still think it’s a shortcut, and with that, we have lost more than 10 people on this bridge.”

Minister Mateke was accompanied by John Kamara, Abel Bizimana, Eng Peter Nkurunungyi among other officials during the commissioning of the reconstruction of the dilapidated bridge.

The construction contract for the Kanyamateke Bridge was awarded to Geses Uganda Ltd.

According to Eng Nkurunungyi, the company’s director, the construction is expected to take 12 months at a cost of Shs2.1 billion.

Nkurunungyi called for cooperation between locals and local leaders to ensure the timely completion of quality work on the bridge.

As construction commences, residents remain hopeful for the swift reconstruction of the Kanyamateke Bridge, anticipating improved accessibility and safety for all who depend on it for their daily activities and livelihoods.