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Locals laud the authorities for construction of a modern bridge despite lack of compensation for damaged crops
Uwajeneza Donatha
Mar 12, 2025 - 11:43
After we shared the story of the residents of Gatenga Sector, Bigogo Village, who were concerned about the issue of bridges washed away by rain, making it difficult for children to go to school and for people to pass, they are now thanking the government of Rwanda for building a modern bridge. However, there are still questions about what will be done to address the remaining issues in the area.
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In September, the residents of Gatenga Sector, Nyarurama Cell, Bigogo Village, were concerned about the bridges washed away by the rain, making it difficult for children to go to school and for people to pass. One of the remaining bridges was also a potential safety hazard. In response to this issue, the City of Kigali has promised to rebuild these bridges in the near future.
Now, the residents are pleased that a modern bridge has been constructed, allowing children to travel to school.
One resident said, "We are very happy because our children used to go to school and find themselves stuck on the road due to the dangerous area, with some falling into the water, and even adults would fall in as well. But now, they have built us a good bridge, and we are very grateful."
On the other hand, some people are saying that although the bridge has been built, their crops were damaged, and they have not been compensated. The work was completed, but they have not been paid, and they do not know where to inquire about the matter. Others are saying that the main issue is the erosion caused by water flowing from Rebero, which is not being constructed sustainably, and it continues to wash away their land.
One resident said, "There were beans and bananas, which were destroyed. They promised to finish the bridge, but they have finished the work without compensating us for the losses, and we have not received anything."
Another added, "The only thing we are left with is that our land is eroding because they never took the land of the people into account."
We tried to find out how the remaining issues regarding the bridge construction would be addressed, but the City of Kigali authorities had not responded by the time we were working on this story.
By: Philemon GISUBIZO; Author: Vestine UMURERWA
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