VANNESSA A
Residents of Nyamabare Cell in Nyabushenyi Parish, Nyarushanje Subcounty, have expressed deep concern over the poor condition of the Bwanga–Kiganga–Nyabushenyi bridge, which they say has remained in a dilapidated state for years despite several appeals to local leaders.
The bridge, which connects Bwanga Parish, Kiganga, and Nyabushenyi Parish, has been in ruins since it was swept away by heavy flooding. Despite promises from district leaders to fix it, no action has been taken to date.
Speaking to our reporter, the LC2 Chairperson of Nyabushenyi Parish, Byamukama Bernard, said the bridge was destroyed by heavy rains years ago. He revealed that after engaging the district leadership, they were promised the bridge would be worked on last year, but nothing has been done.
He added that the situation worsens after heavy rains, making it extremely difficult for school children and business people to cross.
Bernard Musinguzi, a resident of Nyamabare Cell where the bridge is located, said the community has suffered greatly. He explained that residents are sometimes forced to swim through the water to cross.
He also highlighted the struggles faced by Boda Boda riders, who often have to dismount and push their bikes while transporting goods across the bridge. Musinguzi appealed to the government to urgently intervene.
Henry Katushabe, LC1 Chairperson of Nyamabare Cell, said they have written several letters to district authorities about the bridge, but their pleas have been ignored. He lamented the poor service delivery in Nyabushenyi, saying businesses have been affected due to poor transportation, and school children have to be assisted by their parents to cross after heavy rains.
George Matsiko, former Councilor for Nyabushenyi Parish, said he tried during his term in office to lobby for the bridge to be repaired, but his efforts were in vain. He accused leaders of ignoring the issue and offering empty promises.
He stressed the hardships faced by school children attending Kiganga Primary School and Bwanga Secondary School, especially during the rainy season, and urged the government to act.
However, when contacted, the Rukungiri District LC5 Chairperson Geoffrey Kyomukama confirmed that the culverts required to fix the bridge have already been received. He assured the community that the bridge will soon be worked on, bringing hope to the affected residents.
