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She said the link between Chikwalakwala and neighbouring Chiredzi communities, for instance, was cut after the bridge that joins the two places was swept away by floods.
“That is a very busy road, but since it was damaged by the rains there has been reduced movement. We appeal to developing partners to chip in and help us rehabilitate this bridge,” said Senator Mohadi.
“Other roads in the district were also damaged. This has affected the availability of key services such as transport and business.”
Beitbridge District Administrator Mr Simon Muleya also said the destruction of the bridge linking Chikwalakwala to Chiredzi was affecting communities.
“We want that road to be rehabilitated as soon as possible as its destruction is affecting the communities.
“Villagers in Chikwalakwala for instance are unable to access grinding mills on the other side of the river.
“The disruption of the communication network is also affecting administrative links. Officials from the Zimbabwe National Road Administration (Zinara) came here and assessed the situation and we hope they will assist,” said Mr Muleya.
He said the Government was still offering assistance to homeless families whose homesteads were destroyed by the recent floods.
Matabeleland South provincial medical director Dr William Busumani said the damaged road network was hindering provision of health services to remote communities.
He said his ministry was on high alert to prevent an outbreak of water-borne diseases, especially in communities that were affected by flooding.
“We are on high alert to curb diarrheal cases in Beitbridge after flooding. The problem is that it is difficult to reach some communities because of the damaged road network,” said Dr Busumani.
A majority of roads in the district were left virtually impassable after the heavy storms, which also damaged bridges.
Online Reporter