BY SIPHOSETHU MABUZA
SIPHOFANENI – Children travelling to school, families seeking medical care and residents accessing markets are among those expected to benefit from the newly opened Nkosinatsi Suspension Footbridge, a project valued at E1.35 million that aims to make river crossings safer for communities in Siphofaneni.
The 87-metre bridge officially opened on the, 9th October 2026, by Minister of Economic Planning and Development Dr Thambo Gina, marking the 44th pedestrian bridge constructed through the partnership between the government’s Microprojects Programme and Engineers in Action since 2017.
Speaking at the opening, Gina said the bridge should be measured not only by its physical structure but by the difference it makes in people’s everyday lives.
“The true value of this bridge will be measured in the lives that it changes,” he said, pointing to children travelling to school safely, families reaching clinics and markets throughout the year, and communities no longer becoming isolated during heavy rainfall.
The bridge will serve residents of the Madlenya umphakatsi under Chief Mgwagwa Gamedze and Ngevini umphakatsi under chief Mshikashika Ngcamphalala, where rising river levels have previously made traditional crossings dangerous or impassable especially due to the river that is said to be infested with crocodiles. Its opening is expected to improve access to schools, churches, health facilities and other essential services safely and convenient particularly during the rainy season.
The project also introduces a new design within the Eswatini programme. It is the first bridge under the partnership to feature a steel walking deck, replacing the timber decking traditionally used on similar pedestrian suspension bridges. The change is expected to improve durability and reduce long-term maintenance requirements.
Beyond Nkosinatsi, the partnership has constructed 44 pedestrian bridges across 34 Tinkhundla since 2017, reaching approximately 117 000 beneficiaries, according to the ministry’s project information. It has also completed five clean-water systems at schools across five Tinkhundla, benefiting about 1 500 schoolchildren.
The programme is expected to expand in 2027, with plans for nine additional pedestrian bridges, three clean-water systems and five school boreholes. The coming year will also mark 10 years of Engineers in Action operating in Eswatini.
Gina said the programme’s growth demonstrated what could be achieved when government, communities, development partners and technical professionals worked towards a shared purpose.
However, the ministry has also called on the local community to take ownership of the new infrastructure and protect it to ensure it continues serving future generations.
For residents who have faced difficult crossings during periods of heavy rain, the bridge represents more than a completed construction project. Its lasting value will depend on whether it delivers the safer, more reliable access promised at its opening.
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