For many years the community members who reside on either side of the Mpame river in Mbhashe Municipality, Elliotdale, Eastern Cape had to go through dangerous makeshift means to cross the river to visit each other, access different community services such as schools, hospitals, clinics or churches and other public amenities.
The communities from the eight Mbhashe villages recall terrifying stories of crossing the overflowing river having to take off their clothes which stripped them of their dignity. Others still speak of having has to carry coffins through the flooded river for funerals.
The lack of a proper and safe bridge made residents truly dread the rainy season as they feared for their lives.
Following these challenges, CoGTA intervened through its implementing agent, the Municipal Infrastructure Support Agent (MISA) and constructed a bridge that will connect residents in all the eight villages, Kwa Tshezi, Manzibomvu, Mdikana, Mpame, Mncwasa, Ngileni, Mkhathazo and Manzamnyama. They now enjoy safe crossing to access government services and also to visit one another.
The Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Dr Zweli Mkhize on 05 April 2019 officially handed over the bridge to the community. He was accompanied by the EC Premier Mr Phumulo Masualle, Public works Minister Thulas Nxesi, COGTA MEC Mr Xasa and other MECs, traditional leaders, mayors and other eminent stakeholders.
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