Connectivity between Rungwe District in Mbeya Region and Ileje District in Songwe Region has been restored following the completion of emergency reconstruction works on the Lubangalala temporary bridge, after devastating floods cut off transport and disrupted economic activities in the area.
Deputy Minister for Works Godfrey Kasekenya has praised the contractor Awesome Co. Ltd for executing rapid and effective emergency works that enabled the quick restoration of the crossing, bringing relief to thousands of residents who had been stranded.
During an inspection visit, Kasekenya said the government continues to call on contractors to demonstrate speed, professionalism, and innovation, particularly during emergency situations where communities are severely affected by infrastructure damage.
He stressed that timely response in restoring roads and bridges is critical to protecting livelihoods, ensuring access to essential services, and preventing prolonged disruption of social and economic activities.
The Deputy Minister also commended President Samia Suluhu Hassan for approving urgent intervention measures immediately after the bridge was washed away by heavy floods caused by persistent rains in the region.
He noted that the restoration of the Lubangalala crossing is a key step in re-establishing economic and social ties between Rungwe and Ileje, allowing movement of people, goods, and services to resume after weeks of isolation.
The bridge was destroyed on March 25 following severe flooding that also claimed 22 lives, injured several others, and caused extensive damage to crops and infrastructure, leaving communities in distress.
Speaking on behalf of the contractor, engineer Grace Frederick of Awesome Co. Ltd said the company appreciated the government’s trust and coordination throughout the emergency construction process, adding that they remain committed to delivering quality infrastructure within tight timelines.
Residents of Rungwe have welcomed the reopening of the route, saying the restoration has brought significant relief after days of hardship, where transport and trade were severely affected.
They praised the government for acting quickly to restore connectivity and stabilize livelihoods in the affected communities.
