Editor
Residents and local leaders from Bugangari and Ruhinda sub-counties in Rukungiri District are expressing serious concerns about the deteriorating condition of the Njororo Bridge on the Nyabugando-Mabungu-Katokye road. This bridge is a crucial link between Bugangari, Ruhinda, and Nyakajeme but has been severely damaged by flooding over the past three years. The bridge is now only partially functional, creating significant risks for pedestrians and cyclists who continue to use it despite its dangerous state.
Rev. Benon Tumusiime, a local resident, highlighted the difficulties faced by the community in transporting agricultural produce to markets and moving patients, especially pregnant women, to hospitals. The bridge’s inaccessibility to vehicles and motorcycles has made transporting goods increasingly challenging. Rev. Benon pointed out that despite repeated appeals to local leaders and the government, no action has been taken. He cited a recent tragic example: Patrick Katariha, who lost his life on the bridge.
To address these issues, residents and local leaders from Bugangari and Ruhinda have decided to construct a temporary bridge to alleviate some of the challenges caused by the current poor state of the bridge. Rev. Benon is calling on well-wishers, leaders, and other supporters to contribute money or materials to support this temporary bridge project while they await government intervention for the permanent rehabilitation of the main bridge.
Gashom Ngabirano, a resident from Kanyatutu Nyabitete Parish and coordinator of the Njororo Bridge construction, described how residents have mobilized to address the bridge’s poor condition themselves. He criticized the government for neglecting the bridge’s reconstruction, which has led to economic stagnation and transportation issues for years.
Prima Musimenta, Chairperson of Kigarigari Cell, expressed concerns about the safety of crossing the bridge, citing incidents where individuals have fallen and lost their lives. She emphasized the challenges faced by sick and pregnant women who struggle to access healthcare services due to the bridge’s poor condition. She underscored the need for assistance in constructing the temporary bridge to ensure smooth movement of services in the area.
Patrick Mugisha, the Councilor for Nyabitete in Bugangari Subcounty, stated that local leaders have collaborated with residents to address the bridge issues since both groups are affected. He noted that while the government is aware of the problem, the resolution will be delayed, and they cannot wait any longer due to ongoing fatalities. He is appealing to well-wishers and leaders to support the construction of the temporary bridge, which is estimated to cost 16,090,000 UGX.
