Construction of two-kilometre Funzi Bridge to cost Sh70m

Sh70 million will be spent on the construction of a two-kilometre bridge that will see Funzi Island connected to the South Coast mainland.

The island, known for animal sanctuary, tourism and fishing, has 3000 residents who live in impoverished conditions as they lack proper access to the mainland.

Besides three tourist hotels, the island does not have key facilities like hospitals, markets and proper housing units. It is inhabited by the ethnic Shirazi people.

The construction, which is being undertaken by the Central Government, will take one year and on completion, the bridge will be the second longest in Kenya after the Nyali Bridge in Mombasa County.