Africa-Press – Eswatini. After decades of longing and perseverance, the community of Ntjingila is celebrating a new chapter as construction of a long-awaited bridge finally takes shape.
The project, championed by the Minister of Sports Culture and Youth Affairs Bongani Nzima and supported by Microprojects, marks a turning point for the rural community, whose original bridge was swept away by devastating floods in 1984. Since then, crossing the river had become a daily struggle, turning simple tasks like attending school or attending community events into dangerous challenges.
Nzima shared heartfelt reflections on how the absence of the bridge deeply affected the community, especially during the rainy seasons. “Children from New Nazareth Primary School often missed valuable school days because it was simply too dangerous to cross the flooded river,” he said. “It wasn’t just an inconvenience — it risked their education and their future.”
Beyond education, the missing bridge created emotional hardships. Important events such as funerals and family gatherings were often disrupted, as the impassable river kept loved ones apart during significant moments.
Today, with construction well underway, Ntjingila residents are experiencing a wave of renewed hope. Local workers have been employed for the project, giving them not only job opportunities but also valuable skills and a sense of pride in building something lasting for their community.
Nzima expressed deep gratitude to Microprojects for their steadfast support and applauded the resilience and unity of Ntjingila’s people. “This bridge is more than just concrete and steel,” he said. “It stands as a symbol of hope, progress, and the unbreakable spirit of our community.”
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