Murang’a county: The Murang’a County Government has officially commissioned the Nginyi-Kakuzi (Gikono) footbridge, an important infrastructure development that connects Gatanga and Maragua constituencies. The new footbridge is set to alleviate longstanding difficulties faced by residents in crossing the river, particularly during the rainy seasons.
According to Kenya News Agency, Governor Irungu Kang’ata highlighted during the commissioning event that the county-funded project aims to enhance connectivity, facilitate trade, and improve access to essential services such as schools and health facilities between the two areas. He emphasized that the bridge will unlock the economic potential of the Kakuzi-Mitumbiri region by easing the movement of people and goods while ensuring public safety.
Governor Kang’ata praised the collaboration between the county administration and Kakuzi Ward Member of County Assembly, Stephen Muigai, in bringing the project to fruition. He remarked that partnerships between elected leaders are vital for accelerating development and that the bridge exemplifies the success of cooperative leadership efforts for the benefit of the local community.
The Governor further explained that the Nginyi-Kakuzi Bridge is part of Murang’a County Government’s broader investment in transport infrastructure, which seeks to enhance accessibility, improve public safety, and support socio-economic development throughout the county. He also advised residents to recognize the difference between projects carried out by the County Government and those by the National Government to promote accountability and public involvement in development initiatives.
MCA Stephen Muigai expressed that the bridge fulfills a long-standing promise to enhance infrastructure in the ward. He noted that the project will significantly improve the residents’ livelihoods by making movement safer and easier, and he acknowledged the county administration for prioritizing the project. Muigai added that improved infrastructure will drive economic growth and attract more investment to the area.
Residents expressed their approval of the bridge’s commissioning, acknowledging that it will save lives and alleviate the challenges they have faced while crossing the river. Peter Kimani, a Kakuzi resident, shared that the river had long posed a significant risk, especially during heavy rains when crossing was impossible and perilous. He mentioned that the new bridge will eliminate such dangers, allowing residents to conduct their daily activities without fear.
Boda boda operator Wilson Njeri commented that the bridge will enhance transport services by enabling operators to safely ferry passengers across the river year-round. He anticipated that improved access between the two areas would boost business opportunities for transport operators, traders, and farmers, thereby stimulating economic activities.
