NELSON K
Residents of Buhunga in Rukungiri District have received renewed assurance from the district leadership following the destruction of a newly constructed bridge along the Kabingo–Kibirizi–Kasya road, which connects the area to Rwemburara weekly market.
The bridge, which had been temporarily restored after being previously washed away by floods in December 2024, was again affected on Saturday, 9th May 2026, following heavy rains and flooding that swept through the area. The incident temporarily disrupted movement and access to the busy market route.
Local leaders, including Kabingo Parish councillor Mr. Abaho Onesmus Katandore and resident Mr. Rubinika Bosco, acknowledged the disappointment felt by the community, noting that residents had only just regained hope after seeing reconstruction works underway. They, however, expressed optimism that a more durable solution would now be prioritized to secure long-term connectivity and support economic activity in the area.
Concerns had been raised by some residents regarding the strength of the structure, but the technical team has clarified that the bridge had not yet reached its final reinforcement stage at the time of the flooding.
Speaking on the incident, the Rukungiri District Engineer, Eng. Julius Bagira Byakurema, expressed sympathy to the affected community and called for calm as assessments continue. He emphasized that construction works were still ongoing and that the structure had not yet been completed with all required materials to fully withstand extreme weather conditions.
He further explained that the partial works had been overtaken by unusually heavy storms, which led to the damage and necessitated a restart of some sections, but assured residents that this will inform improved planning and stronger construction going forward.
The district engineering department has since confirmed that fresh construction works will resume once additional funding is secured, with a commitment to prioritize a stronger and more resilient bridge to ensure reliable access between Buhunga and Rwemburara weekly market.
