By Ncaba Ntshakala
The Ministry of Economic Planning and Development, Microprojects Programme, and Engineers in Action (EIA) are proud to share the completion of their 25th bridge in Eswatini, which has been hailed as a vast achievement in their mission to enhance connectivity and improve lives through infrastructure.
The newly constructed “Jolitane” bridge is the fourth bridge completed this year and it links Manzini and Hhohho region whilst connecting the communities of Dvokolwako and Zondondo.
The new bridge was cited as an achievement that is transforming the daily lives of the residents.
The Jolitane bridge was constructed in just 10 weeks and spans an impressive 88 meters and will serve over 3,000 residents from the connected communities.
The project saw the collaboration of civil engineering students from Cornell University, Rutgers University, and Hofstra University, who, alongside professional engineers from the USA, UK, and Australia, contributed their expertise to the construction efforts.
Ana Jovanovic, EIA Program Manager, expressed her gratitude for the ongoing partnership with Microprojects. “We deeply appreciate our collaboration with Microprojects.
This bridge stands as a testament to our successful cooperation over the past seven years,” said Jovanovic. “We are excited to continue our work and have plans to build three more bridges in Sithobela, Ngudzeni, and Luyengo by October 2024, aligning with the end of the building season.”
The Footbridges, also known as pedestrian bridges, are structures designed to facilitate the safe passage of pedestrians over obstacles such as rivers, ravines, and busy roads.
ALSO READ: More Roads and Bridges Damaged During Heavy Rains
These bridges are critical in areas where natural barriers can impede access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and markets.
The footbridges play a vital role in enhancing the mobility and economic opportunities of rural and underserved communities.
The Jolitane bridge is no exception. It was said that this footbridge is designed to endure the test of time as features high-quality materials, including cables imported from the USA and clamps from South Africa which will ensure the structure’s durability for over 50 years.
The civil engineering students who participated in this project left Eswatini last weekend.
During the official opening of the project, it was further shared that their involvement extended beyond technical contributions as they engaged with the local communities who played a vital role in the construction of the Jolitane bridge.
ALSO READ: Pennsylvania State University students to build footbridge in Eswatini
The students were said to be deeply moved by the spirit of collaboration and the warm hospitality of the community members, who actively participated in the building process.
Microprojects Programme Director Sibusiso Mbingo when delivering his remarks expressed that they are grateful for the partnership they have with Engineers In Action.
He said the collaboration that is developing some parts of Eswatini was the effort that is being done by the Eswatini government.
He shared that it was government that engaged the EIA people to come and help in the Kingdom with the footbridges which have turned to be more vital for locals.
