Residents complain of poor roads and bridges

The makeshift bridge on River Itimbogo in Runyenjes constituency. Residents want it replaced. [Joseph Muchiri, Standard]

Residents of Kyeni South and Kagaari South Wards last week met to discuss issues affecting them.

The poor state of roads and a makeshift bridge in the area featured prominently in the meeting held at Karago Primary School.

The residents appealed to their leaders to address the dilapidated makeshift bridge on River Itimbogo.  

According to the residents, the bridge was a disaster waiting to happen.

“During rains, we cannot risk having our children use that bridge. They spend even a week at home until the water levels go down,” said Abel Nyaga.

Karago Primary draws pupils from Gichera and Ndagakira villages which are connected by the bridge.

The residents spoke when they met at the school to discuss issues facing them and which they intend to later present to their leaders.

The residents called on the Government to construct a proper bridge across River Itimbogo for the sake of their children and farm produce.

“We have complained about this bridge and bad roads to the Government for a long time yet nothing has been done. Why does the Government neglect this area yet we pay taxes just like other Kenyans,” said Sarah Mururi of Ndagakira village 

According to the residents, bad infrastructure in the area was affecting education standards. 

“Our school’s growth has stalled because teachers do not want to work here,” said Taratisio Kawe, the acting chairman of the school committee at Karago Primary School.

The school has only six teachers against eight classes and currently has no substantive head teacher.

Close by,  Nyagari Secondary School is also struggling.

The residents called on governor Martin Wambora to fix infrastructure in the area.

However, Kyeni South ward rep Salesio Kimaru said the bridge is on private property.

“If the land owners are ready to surrender part of their land for a road, the Government will look for surveyors and land valuers to advise on the compensation,” he said.