The authorities in Yei River County on Wednesday evening officially launched construction of the Kanjoro–New Site Road Bridge, which has been in poor condition and has been cutting off movement.
The ceremony was attended by community leaders, residents of Lomuku One, and local government officials. The bridge, located between Lomuku One and Kanjoro along the road popularly known as the “Presidential Bridge” leading to New Site, has been in a terrible state for years.
Currently, suspended on a shipping container, the structure has posed serious risks to pedestrians and motorists.
Speaking at the launch, Yei River County Commissioner Samuel Henry Malimbo revealed that the county government has contracted Point Investment Construction Company to undertake the work for USD 58,000.
“It is very expensive; there were people who said that the bridge will cost USD 150,000 US dollars, some even said 200,000, but we thank God that we were able to agree with Point Investment Company, who said the cost is USD 58,000,” he said. “The county leadership will take lead to make sure that the project is a success.”
An engineer from Point Investment Construction Company, who only identified himself as Anthony, assured residents of the firm’s readiness to begin work immediately. He said they expect to complete the bridge in 45 days and appealed to all stakeholders to cooperate during the construction period.
“We are happy to do our work, this is what we love doing, and we do it diligently. Our program for this project is 30 days, but we may extend it to 45 days,” he said. “The bridge belongs to everyone regardless of race or tribe; it serves one purpose, and we need to work together.”
Hillary Luate, Emeritus Bishop of the Yei Anglican Church, described the project as a major step toward improving service delivery and strengthening unity among the people.
“Leaders should prioritize practical development initiatives like this over political speeches,” he counseled. “This will bring peace and unity among the people. We want such services to continue for the people.”
Meanwhile, Johnson Poru Hillary, Chairperson of the Bridge Construction Committee, urged community members to continue supporting the project through financial and material contributions. He appealed to individuals who made pledges earlier to honor their commitments to ensure timely completion.
“When there is an initiative like this in our community, we should extend a helping hand and love it because it can help us,” he stated. “If you have any amount, it can help, and I am also appealing to those who pledged and have not yet fulfilled the pledge to bring theirs as we pray it comes through.”
Once completed, the new bridge is expected to ease movement and improve safety for thousands of residents who use the Kanjoro–New Site Road.
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