Residents from Kwa Felemu in Neno District and Mtayanyemba in Kwa Kunthembwe, Blantyre District, have commended the government for prioritizing the construction of a new bridge across the Shire River, describing it as a major relief to their daily lives.
The communities say the bridge has significantly improved connectivity between the two areas, which were previously cut off during periods of flooding.
The development is expected to enhance mobility and economic activities for people who depend on cross-river access.
One local grocery trader from Chipindu in Neno District expressed gratitude, stating that the completion of the bridge has brought renewed hope to small-scale business operators who had long struggled with transportation challenges.
“We thank God that we have been given another strong bridge, similar to the one that was destroyed by floods. We lost goods as we watched them being swept away while using unsafe boats,” said Dickson Mbulaje.
He added that with improved harvests this year, the bridge will ease the transportation of farm produce to markets such as Chikuli, enabling farmers and traders to conduct business more efficiently.
Previously, residents relied on canoes to cross the river, a situation that exposed them to risks and frequent losses, especially during the rainy season when water levels rose dangerously.
The bridge was constructed by members of the Malawi Defence Force, who completed the project within a short period, demonstrating efficiency and commitment to public service.
Traditional leaders and community members have since appealed to the government to continue entrusting such infrastructure projects to capable and hardworking local experts, emphasizing that this approach could accelerate national development.
