Ngomahuru Bridge commissioning improves access to essential social services
Story by Mercy Bofu
GOVERNMENT has commissioned the newly-constructed Ngomahuru Bridge, also known as a Piped Drift, which is critical in accessing Ngomahuru Psychiatric Hospital in Masvingo.
The construction of Ngomahuru Bridge in Masvingo has come as a major relief to surrounding communities as it ensures access to Ngomahuru Psychiatric Hospital and Masvingo Highway.
The government through the Rural Infrastructure Development Agency (RIDA) stepped in to assist after the old bridge had been washed away by rains in 2021.
“We are happy that the government came to our rescue after the bridge was washed away. We were now struggling to cross this river, especially with patients,” said one of the beneficiaries.
Another added, “This bridge is very important for us as it connects us to the highway to Masvingo or Beitbridge. The way we were now crossing was very dangerous as it exposed us, especially during the rainy season.”
The government says it remains committed to ensuring an improved road network in rural communities.
“This bridge is part of the government’s programmes to ensure people in rural communities have improved livelihoods. We have put up this bridge such that people access social services from both Ngomahuru Psychiatric Hospital and Masvingo Town,” said Masvingo Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honorable Ezra Chadzamira.
Rural Infrastructure Development Agency Masvingo Provincial Manager, Mr Marasa Gutukunhuwa said, “We started working on this bridge in 2021 and by 2022 we were done. This facility is part of our programmes across the country to ensure an improved road network.”
The government has been implementing various programmes to ensure access to social services in rural communities, including rehabilitation of road infrastructure, construction of clinics and schools and ensuring access to information communication technologies.
