Residents of Mahanga in Lwandeti Ward, Lugari Constituency, and Bakisa in Mihuu Ward, Webuye East Constituency, are making a desperate plea to their leaders for the construction of a modern bridge over River Nzoia. The communities, who are connected by this treacherous river crossing, say they have endured years of using a dangerous makeshift bridge made of sticks, which has claimed several lives, including that of a Maasai man who drowned recently while attempting to cross.
“Hon. Nabii Nabwera and Hon. Martin Pepela, we need your help now more than ever. Our people are dying while trying to cross this river, and our children risk their lives daily to get to school. We cannot continue like this,” said one of the residents, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
Currently, students and locals rely on the unstable bridge, a construction put together by the community out of desperation. “We wake up every day fearing that someone else may lose their life here. Our children cross this river on their way to school, and it’s heartbreaking to see them risk their lives for an education,” another resident lamented.
According to the residents, politicians have promised to address the issue during campaign periods but have consistently failed to deliver after securing their votes. “We feel forgotten. Every election, they come and promise a bridge, but after the votes, we are left to fend for ourselves. This is not just about politics; it’s about saving lives,” said a frustrated resident.
The tragic drowning of a Maasai man a few weeks ago has reignited the community’s call for immediate action. “How many more lives must be lost before something is done? We appeal to our MPs, Nabii Nabwera and Martin Pepela, to come together and prioritize this bridge for the sake of our people,” they pleaded.
The residents are urging the two legislators to collaborate and allocate resources toward building a modern, durable bridge to ensure safe passage for students, farmers, and daily commuters from both sides of the river.
