By Burnett Munthali
In a significant move to improve infrastructure in Mangochi, businessman and politician Ernest Issah Phambala has officially launched the rehabilitation of four vital bridges that were damaged three years ago. The launch took place at Village Headman Mitanga in the area of Traditional Authority Mponda, where work has already begun on the Mtamankhokwe Bridge.
The Mtamankhokwe Bridge, which is 15 meters long, had been in disrepair for years, cutting off local communities from crucial services such as schools, hospitals, and markets. Group Village Headman Mitanga expressed his gratitude to Phambala, noting that while the damage occurred three years ago, there had been little action from the current duty bearers to repair the bridge.
“As you can see, this bridge connects our villages to essential services. During the rainy season, it becomes impossible for us to access these services, which is why we are very grateful to Honorable Phambala for taking the initiative to rehabilitate it,” said the GVH.
In his address, Phambala emphasized the importance of infrastructure in facilitating development. He explained that one of the key factors for the growth of any area is having accessible and passable roads and bridges. While acknowledging that these repairs could have been funded through the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), he pointed out that the priorities of the current government appear to differ.
“I believe in the development of this area, and that can only happen if people are connected with good infrastructure. These are bridges that should have been rehabilitated a long time ago, and I’m committed to completing this work before March next year. I want to ensure that my entire constituency is connected and can access the services they deserve,” Phambala said.
The rehabilitation of the Mtamankhokwe Bridge marks the beginning of the project, with Phambala set to restore four crucial bridges in the area, enhancing connectivity for local residents. His efforts highlight his dedication to improving the infrastructure and overall welfare of the people in his constituency. The rehabilitation project is expected to ease transportation challenges, especially during the rainy season, and provide better access to vital services for thousands of residents.
