EKUDZENI:Community members here at Ekudzeni in the Manzini region,are forced to cross the flooded Umtilane river bare footed after King Mswati’s Government failed to construct a bridge.
Speaking to this Swaziland News, Solomon Hlophe,the Bucopho of Ekudzeni Umphakatsi confirmed the struggle of the residents adding that Government failed to construct the bridge despite several requests from the community.
“One can mention that we did apply for the bridge from the Government, we are still waiting with the hope that it will be constructed soon before more damage is done",he said.
Chief Ndlaluhlaza Ndwandwe, the Minister of Public Works and Transport had not responded to our questions at the time of compiling this report.
Colani Hlatjwako, the Coordinator of a women rights advocacy organization, One Billion Rising Africa said she struggled to access the area to engage women as part of a women empowerment project funded by MTN Foundation.
It has been disclosed that like community members,the One Billion Rising Coordinator was forced to cross the river barefooted.
“This community just needs a small bridge so that they can access health facilities,clinics and other basic needs.It's a shame to see such difficulties of not being able to reach a certain place by car in these days,”said the Coordinator.
No bridge for Ekudzeni community.