Online Reporter
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]
THE construction of the Halisupi Bridge in Gwanda District has provided much-needed relief to villagers, who previously struggled to access essential services due to frequent flooding.
Located on Halisupi–Patana Road, the bridge offers vital connectivity for residents travelling to key locations such as the Mlambapeli Border, Mnyangani Irrigation Scheme, Takaliyawa cattle sales and Mashaba Clinic, among other facilities.
A villager, Ms Selina Nkomo, described the immense challenges the community faced, particularly during the rainy season when basic services were virtually inaccessible.
“We are happy that this bridge has been repaired, and we can now cross the river even during the rainy season, which was not possible before.
“It was very difficult for us to access the clinic during heavy rains. We had to spend hours stranded on one side of the river, waiting for the water to subside while trying to transport critically ill patients to the clinic.
“Some people had to seek shelter in nearby homesteads while waiting for the water levels to drop. Children were also affected, as they frequently encountered flooded rivers on their way to and from school,” she said.
Village head, Mr Ndaba Tshuma highlighted that the bridge serves as an essential link for many villagers, facilitating daily economic activities. He noted that the lack of accessibility had discouraged service providers from operating in the area.
Rural Infrastructure Development Agency (Rida) Matabeleland South Provincial Director, Mr Likhwalethu Ndlovu, said that Halisupi Bridge had become impassable, necessitating urgent intervention.
“The plain drift that was there was no longer passable, which created major difficulties for the community. People were struggling to access irrigation, reach the border, go to the clinic, or even travel into town. We decided to upgrade the structure to a piped drift, using funds from our Zinara maintenance budget, though this did result in slight delays to the project,” he said.
At the official commissioning of the bridge, Matabeleland South Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Dr Evelyn Ndlovu, hailed the project as a clear demonstration of the Government’s commitment to ensuring that no one and no place is left behind in terms of development.
She highlighted the Government’s steady progress in rolling out infrastructure development, particularly roads and bridges, which are crucial for supporting trade and other economic activities.
Dr Ndlovu stressed the importance of easy access to key facilities such as irrigation schemes, borders, business centres, health facilities and schools.
She also applauded the local community for actively participating in the project by providing labour and encouraged residents to embrace development initiatives spearheaded by the Government and its partners.
“The Government is implementing development projects across all provinces to ensure inclusive progress. Brick by brick, Zimbabweans will build their country towards a prosperous future. I am pleased to note that Halisupi Bridge was constructed in a communal area, recognising that such areas are often left behind when rehabilitating infrastructure.
“I have been reliably informed that the Halisupi Bridge, which lies along the Halisupi – Patana Road, connects to Mlambapeli Border, Mnyangani Irrigation, Takaliyawa cattle sales and Mashaba Clinic,” said Dr Ndlovu
This vital infrastructure project marks a significant milestone in improving accessibility, fostering economic activity and enhancing the quality of life for the local community. —@DubeMatutu
