MBABANE – Excitement, relief, and hope.
The above three words could best describe what residents under Siphocosini constituency feel right now.
This comes after the completion of two footbridges at Masibekela (Sipete footbridge worth E1.6 million) and Sigangeni (Mahamangweni foot bridge) respectively. The two projects, funded by microprojects, started on March 8, 2021 and they have since been completed.
Eswatini Positive News has established that two contractors were awarded tenders for the construction of the footbridges. The companies are ERG Investment and Baob Investment.
This publication has gathered that the projects have not only brought joy to the constituency, but also, assurance that it will now be easy for pupils to cross to nearby schools and also access the main road here.
What seems to be icing on top of the cake is that the tarring (single seal tar) of Siphocosini-Sigangeni road is also in its final stages.
Sipho Dlamini, a resident, said the benefits of the footbridges will help reduce incidents of drowning which was gradually taking a toll, and with summer approaching, the residents were getting frustrated. Again, criminal offenses like robberies will now be avoided as offenders used to waylay residents seeking to cross the rivers where the bridges are located.
“In fact, we are very excited and grateful as residents because we no longer have to get worried about how to cross the two rivers. We are seeing development at high speed in the constituency,” he said.
Meanwhile, Siphocosini Member of Parliament Mduduzi Matsebula said they were grateful to government and microproject for financing the footbridges and delivering on time before heavy rains.
“As Inkhundla, we are excited to deliver such projects despite the fiscal challenges made worse by COVID-19. We appreciate the good working relationship we have with the electorate and stakeholders. It is very encouraging and it makes us push hard to deliver more before 2023,” he said.
Well done Mr Matsebula, we really appreciate your effort Mkholo.