The Gumulira-Liveya Bridge, a crucial link between Chikuli and Mulemba wards in Mulanje South West Constituency, is slated for rehabilitation at a cost exceeding 100 million Kwacha in the 2024-2025 financial year.
This significant investment highlights the necessity of durable infrastructure to drive sustainable growth in disaster-prone areas like Mulanje, which faced severe damage from Cyclone Freddy in 2023.
Despite claims on social media suggesting the bridge could be restored for just 3 million Kwacha, assessments by the Mulanje District Council have indicated that a larger budget is essential for a resilient and long-lasting structure.
Built with timber in 2020 using the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), the bridge had been a vital artery for transporting farm produce, especially tomatoes, to the Chinakanaka market. Its destruction has created considerable hardships for local communities.
Councilor Beatrice Mlatho of Chikuli Ward stressed the extent of the damage and the urgent need for a sustainable solution.
“The bridge, funded by the CDF, suffered significant damage from Cyclone Freddy. Restoring it with CDF funds alone is no longer viable,” she stated.
To address the issue, Dr. George Chaponda, the area’s Member of Parliament and Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, has advocated for the construction of a concrete bridge to withstand future disasters.
“A concrete bridge will ensure resilience against future cyclones and other shocks,” emphasized Councilor Mlatho. The project has been coordinated with Traditional Authority Mthiramanja and local communities, fostering widespread support and involvement.
Councilor Thokozani Namoyo, former Chairperson of Mulanje District Council and current Chairperson of the Finance Committee, confirmed the bridge’s inclusion in the Governance to Enable Service Delivery (GESD) program.
“Each constituency is allocated a project under GESD, and for Mulanje South West, the Gumulira-Liveya Bridge was selected. Comprehensive assessments have already been completed,” he noted.
Community members from Gumulira and Liveya villages have appealed to authorities to accelerate the rehabilitation process, especially with the rainy season underway
. The bridge’s restoration is critical for ensuring the seamless transport of agricultural goods, thereby supporting local livelihoods and strengthening the economy.
Addressing misinformation on social media, Councilor Namoyo dismissed the claims as uninformed.
“Those spreading these rumors lack knowledge of the situation. The council and constituency leadership are fully committed to ensuring this vital project is successfully implemented,” he remarked.
The Gumulira-Liveya Bridge represents more than just infrastructure; it is a beacon of resilience, cooperation, and progress. Once completed, it will bolster connectivity, enhance economic opportunities, and prepare the community for future challenges.
