Cost-effective bridge excites deputy minister

Deputy Minister of Local Government Halima Daudi has commended Chitipa East legislator Kezzie Msukwa and local development leaders for saving about K80 million meant for the construction of Ndonde Bridge.

The bridge, constructed in the area of Senior Chief Mwenimisuku in the district, was quoted at K100 million.

The minister made the remarks on Sunday at Kasitu Primary School after handing over the K19 million bridge constructed with part of the K40 million 2021 Constituency Development Fund.

She said: “The information that we have gathered indicates that the local contractor used K19 million for the bridge that will serve both learners, expectant mothers and farmers in the process, saving about K80 million. That shows that there is a cordial working relationship between elected and local leaders.”

On his part, Msukwa, who is also Minister of Lands and Housing, said they decided to use local contractors instead of the Road Authority’s preferred contractor.

“Out of the K40 million CDF money, we used K19 million for the construction of the bridge and the remaining K21 million went towards the construction of classroom blocks at Nachisolo and Masimbo primary schools.

“All this is because of commitment, dedication and mutual understanding among ward councillors and the council secretariat, traditional leaders and their subjects who contributed building materials such as sand, bricks and quarry,” he said.

However, while commending the legislator, Senior Chief Mwenimisuku also appealed for the resumption of the construction of Kapoka Health Centre which stalled in 2013 at foundation level and Kapoka market.

He said: “I commend you for the bridge which will save souls, especially learners who could not cross during rainy season.

“But be informed that patients, including expectant mothers, are covering over 30 kilometres to go to Chitipa District Hospital for treatment.”

In response, Msukwa said he will liaise with the Ministry of Local Government to ensure that the two stalled projects are completed.