MUGABE R
Residents from Mabanga Parish in Kebisoni Sub County, Rukungiri District, and Kitojo Parish in Ntungamo District have called on government to urgently construct Kyenshoro Bridge to curb cases of drowning and ease transport in the area.
The bridge, which crosses River Kahengye, is currently makeshift and risky, with locals relying on timber poles and stepping through water to cross. The situation has not only endangered lives but also hindered trade between the two sub-counties.
Community members expressed frustration over the hardships they face. Elderly residents narrated how access to relatives across the river has become almost impossible, while others highlighted cases where people have drowned in attempts to cross. Many say the state of the bridge has left them cut off socially and economically.
Local leaders have also joined the call. Joramu Mugume, the LC1 chairperson of Kitojo Cell, said the subcounty budget cannot accommodate the construction of a permanent bridge and appealed to government to intervene. Frank Mabwa, the Vice Chairperson LC3 Kebisoni Sub County, commended locals for their resilience in maintaining temporary crossings, but noted that permanent government support is urgently required. He also urged communities to support road and bridge projects by willingly providing land when needed.
Rubabo County Member of Parliament, Hon. Naboth Namanya, applauded residents for prioritizing development in their demands, which he described as an act of patriotism. He emphasized the need for government to re-examine road funds to ensure rural communities benefit from safer and more reliable road networks.
Locals now await government action, hoping for a permanent solution that will save lives and promote trade between Rukungiri and Ntungamo districts.
