What You Need to Know
The Maime community in Lesotho has urged the government to prioritize building footbridges over the Senqunyane River to ensure children’s safe access to schools. With schools reopening, community leaders highlighted the dangers pupils face during rainy seasons, as swollen river levels make crossings perilous. Parents worry for their children’s safety, prompting early school releases when rain is a
Africa-Press – Lesotho. The Maime community in the foothills of Mosalemane Constituency has strongly appealed to the government to prioritise the construction of footbridges along the Senqunyane River to ensure safe access to schools for children.
The appeal emerged on Tuesday during interviews conducted by the Lesotho News Agency (LENA) with community members, as schools are set to reopen on Wednesday following the Easter holidays.
According to the Chairperson of the Maime Community Council Child Protection Team (CCCPT), Mrs. Matiisetso Makoko, many pupils face serious challenges crossing the Senqunyane River to reach primary schools such as Maime and Ha-Ramatlali.
Mrs. Makoko said the area has recently experienced persistent rainfall, which has caused the Senqunyane River to swell, making it difficult and often impossible for both children and adults to cross.
She noted that whenever there are signs of impending rain while children are still at school across the river, parents become deeply concerned about their safety.
“Every time we see signs of possible rainfall, we alert teachers to release the children early to ensure their safety,” she said.
She further indicated that even under normal conditions, water levels can reach waist height for children, posing a significant risk.
The construction of footbridges has been a critical issue in many rural communities in Lesotho, where access to education is often hindered by natural barriers. The Maime community’s appeal reflects broader concerns about infrastructure development in remote areas, particularly in light of changing weather patterns that exacerbate existing challenges. Ensuring safe passage for children is essential for their education and well-being, making community advocacy vital in influencing government priorities.
