By Mbono Mdluli
MBABANE – Engineers In Action (EIA) and Microprojects have announced that their 2025 building season will focus on areas severely affected by recent heavy rains across Eswatini.
According to a press release from Microprojects, the January 2025 floods caused widespread destruction, washing away key infrastructure, including the Mkhitsini footbridge. Due to the extensive damage, these affected regions have been prioritized for reconstruction.
EIA and Microprojects team surveying the Mkhondvo river floods consequences
EIA’s Technical and National Needs Assessment Officer, Siboniso Simelane, emphasized the urgency of rebuilding in Mkhitsini, where over 310 homesteads remain isolated from essential services. He confirmed that after thorough assessments, EIA has committed to constructing a new suspension bridge in the area, designed to withstand future climate-related disasters.
“This permanent solution will not only provide a vital lifeline for the community but also mark the first relief bridge EIA has built in Eswatini,” said Simelane. “We take great pride in responding to the immediate needs caused by natural disasters in the country.”
Proven Resilience in Infrastructure
Masongwane bridge that survived the floods
EIA’s flood-resistant bridge designs have already demonstrated their durability. During the recent Mkhondvo River floods, the Masongwane Bridge, constructed by EIA, remained intact and functional while surrounding infrastructure suffered severe damage.
The 2025 building season will officially commence on February 3, beginning with the construction of a suspension footbridge in Maseyisini Inkhundla. A group of seven volunteers from Florida Atlantic University will join local community members for the superstructure phase. These students, who have actively contributed to the project’s design and preparation, will spend two weeks in Eswatini working on-site.
Throughout the season, EIA and Microprojects will build eight footbridges in the following Tinkhundla:
- Maseyisini
- Siphofaneni
- Nsingweni/Maphalaleni
- Mayiwane
- Hosea
- Matsanjeni South
- Mpolonjeni
- Shiselweni 2
These bridges will enhance connectivity, allowing communities better access to schools, clinics, markets, and other critical services.
Long-Term Sustainability
EIA Projects Coordinator and Procurement Officer Simphiwe Nhlapho stated that local materials would be used alongside durable components imported from the USA and South Africa. “Our cables are designed to last at least 50 years, ensuring safe crossings for generations,” he said.
Since the beginning of their partnership, EIA and Microprojects have significantly improved accessibility for thousands across Eswatini.
“We have already served more than 78,000 community members, providing safer access to schools, healthcare, and markets,” said Mduduzi Mdluli, EIA/Microprojects Community Development Officer. “With the continued expansion of our program, we will reach even more people in the coming years, especially as we introduce additional WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) initiatives to deliver clean water where it’s needed most.”
Transformative Year Ahead
As construction begins, the collaboration between volunteers, engineers, and community members is set to make 2025 a landmark year for infrastructure development in Eswatini. The dedication of all involved ensures that these projects will have a lasting impact, fostering resilience and improved quality of life for affected communities.
