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RUBIRIZI DISTRICT β The Woman Member of Parliament for Rubirizi District, Hon. Arinitwe Jeniva Nalongo, has called on residents to embrace Burungi Bwansi community voluntary work to protect government infrastructure, particularly roads and bridges, as a technical team from the Ministry of Works and Transport inspected Kyambura and Rutondo bridges following her request for a technical assessment in Parliament.
The inspection follows growing concerns among residents over the condition of the two bridges and surrounding roads, with fears that further deterioration could disrupt transport, trade and access to essential services. Rutondo Bridge, which connects Rubirizi District to Ibanda District, is particularly important to communities that depend on it for movement and economic activities.
Hon. Jeniva said she involved the Ministry of Works and Transport after observing the damage and listening to concerns raised by residents. She explained that one of her responsibilities as a representative is to link communities with the government and ensure that their concerns are presented to the relevant authorities for attention and appropriate action.
The legislator noted that although the government invests substantial resources in constructing roads, bridges and other public infrastructure, communities also have a responsibility to protect these facilities and support efforts to keep them in good condition.
She urged residents and local leaders to embrace Burungi Bwansi by participating in community work, clearing drainage channels, keeping road reserves free from obstructions and reporting damage to roads and bridges before it worsens.
According to Hon. Jeniva, community participation in infrastructure maintenance can help reduce avoidable damage and support the long-term use of public facilities. She emphasized that protecting roads and bridges is a shared responsibility that requires cooperation between the government, local leaders and residents.
She further explained that well-maintained roads and bridges are essential to the livelihoods of local communities because they enable farmers to transport their produce to markets, allow learners to travel to school and help patients reach health facilities. Reliable transport links also support businesses, trade and development across the district.
During the inspection, the Ministryβs technical team assessed Kyambura Bridge and Rutondo Bridge, taking measurements and examining river flow and erosion around the structures. The assessment is expected to inform a technical report containing recommendations for possible immediate interventions and long-term solutions.
The inspection marks a step towards addressing the concerns raised by residents, although the extent of the required repairs and the appropriate interventions will depend on the findings and recommendations of the technical assessment.
Hon. Jeniva assured the people of Rubirizi that she would continue engaging with the Ministry of Works and Transport to follow up on the assessment and advocate for appropriate action. She reiterated her call for residents to take an active role in protecting public infrastructure through Burungi Bwansi, saying collective responsibility is vital to preserving roads and bridges for present and future generations.
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