Johannesburg: Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson, along with Deputy Minister Sihle Zikalala, will officially hand over a newly constructed Welisizwe rural bridge in the Eastern Cape. The bridge, which spans the Umzimvubu River at Tebe-Tebe in eMaXesibeni, Alfred Nzo District Municipality, aims to significantly improve access for the local community.

According to South African Government News Agency, the bridge will offer safe and dependable access for the residents of Welakabini and Esihlahleni, who have previously faced challenging and hazardous conditions, especially during periods of heavy rain. The improved infrastructure is expected to make a considerable difference in the daily lives of local residents.

The handover ceremony will see participation from the Executive Mayor of the Alfred Nzo District Municipality, Vukile Mhlelembana, and the Mayor of Umzimvubu Local Municipality, Zukiswa Ndevu. Their presence underscores the importance of the project for the local community and its potential impact on regional connectivity.

The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, through the Welisizwe Rural Bridge Programme, has committed to constructing 96 bridges annually in rural areas. This initiative is part of a collaborative effort with the South African National Defence Force to connect communities more effectively to essential services such as schools and hospitals.