Gakenke: District Leadership Responds to Longstanding Concern Over Dilapidated Wooden Bridge

Gakenke District is replacing the deteriorated wooden bridge in Kagoma Cell with a durable steel structure, improving safety and boosting local trade and access to education.

By Libos NDAYISHIMIYE

After repeated outcries from residents of Kagoma Cell in Gakenke Sector, Gakenke District, regarding the poor state of a wooden bridge crossing the Base River, local authorities have now announced a long-awaited solution. The bridge, which has posed serious risks to users due to its deteriorated wooden planks, will soon be replaced with a more durable, metal structure.

The bridge has long served pedestrians and small vehicles, especially farmers transporting produce to markets and parents escorting children to school. However, its unstable condition has raised fears of possible accidents and disruptions to daily life.

Nyiraneza Claudine, a local parent, shared her experience: “There were times we couldn’t send our children to school because the bridge looked too dangerous. We raised our concerns many times but had to continue using it, constantly worried.”

Twizeyimana Jean, a 43-year-old farmer, echoed these sentiments: “Many of us have fallen into the river while carrying our harvest. Imagine working the whole season only to lose everything on the way. We’re thankful the authorities have finally heard us.”

This bridge issue has been a recurring concern in community meetings and discussions led by local leaders. It was identified as one of the major barriers to social and economic development in the area.

Aimé François Niyonsenga, the Gakenke District Vice Mayor in charge of Economic Development, confirmed that the bridge is now part of the district’s priority infrastructure projects and that preparations for its reconstruction are already underway.

He stated: “We are aware of the bridge’s poor condition. As a temporary solution, we initially reinforced it with planks and logs to allow minimal use. But now, a permanent fix is coming.”

He added: “In partnership with the Rwanda Transport Development Agency (RTDA), we have already awarded the contract to a contractor who has begun mobilizing metal materials for construction. The project will ease transport and trade for residents, and we expect construction to officially start in early 2026.”

The new bridge, to be built using steel, is expected to eliminate the risk of accidents, improve mobility, and boost local economic activities like farming, trading, and access to education.

The district leadership has committed to closely following up on the project to ensure timely and quality delivery. They emphasize that addressing such concerns is proof that residents’ voices are heard, and that public infrastructure must serve the safety and development needs of the community.