The Mountain Journal
Construction of the Gikono footbridge is a relief to thousands of the residents in lower Murang’a, ending the suffering they have been undergoing during rainy seasons.
The county government moved to construct the footbridge connecting the Nginyi–Kakuzi villages in Maragua and Gatanga constituencies following public participation forums in the localities.Speaking during the commissioning of the bridge, Kang’ata said the project will enhance connectivity between the two villages thus increasing trade and improving access to schools, health facilities and other essential services offered by the county and national governments.
The county government in the year 2026/2027 , the governor said has allocated more than Sh 400 million for the community projects that will be supervised by the MCAs in the wards for the interest of uplifting peoples living standards.
“The bridge will also unlock the economic potential of the Kakuzi-Mitumbiri area by easing the movement of people and goods while enhancing public safety,” said the governor, adding that in the year Sh 400 million has been allocated for the community programmes.
He said his administration has invested in the construction of the key infrastructure, among them the bridges through effective partnerships with the county assembly.
Accompanied by the Kakuzi/ Mitumbiri MCA Stephen Muigai, the Governor said the longlasting partnerships between himself and the MCAs’ have continued to accelerate development.
“This bridge is a clear demonstration of what can be achieved when leaders work together for the benefit of wananchi,” he explained.
Peter Kimani, a resident, said the river had posed a major risk to the community for many years, particularly during heavy rains when water levels rose and made crossing impossible.
The locals said they had been forced to use risky makeshift bridges that were washed away by floods.
“ Several people had lost their lives while attempting to cross the swollen stream but the presence of the bridge will reduce the risks and ensure the residents are safe during the rainy seasons,” he said.
A boda boda operator, Wilson Njeri, said the bridge will improve transport services by allowing operators to ferry passengers safely across the stream throughout the year.
“ Easier access between the two areas is expected to increase business opportunities for transport operators, traders and farmers while stimulating economic activities,” he said.
Mzee James Mwangi said the completion of the footbridge comes ahead of the expected heavy rain before the end of the year lauding the efforts by Kang’ata after years of tribulations.
“ The families in the lower areas have been suffering during the rainy seasons over fear of trekking long distances to avoid being swept away by the floods,” said Mwangi.
The footbridge, a key infrastructure, Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata said it will end years of hardship for residents who have struggled to cross the river, especially during the rainy season.
Ends
