Men address a need among Mashifane Park’s residents
Resident Zambia Masegare, who works in Steelpoort, remarked that the bridge saved locals travelling money."I used to take two taxis from Mashifane to Steelpoort. Now, I only cross the bridge and hitch-hike to work for only R12."
BURGERSFORT – Realising the struggles endured by the people of Mashifane Park when crossing the Tubatse River, two local men decided to construct a small bridge.
Billy Mnisi and Lazarus Mosoma designed a hanging bridge using cables, planks and strong tree branches. The bridge is about 70 metres long.
They charge a small fee to allow people to cross the bridge. It is used by more than 100 residents a day to get to Steelpoort, and also to reach work at nearby lodges and companies.
According to the men, people were forced to cross the flooded river, endangering their lives.
“In May this year my pregnant wife asked if we could not do something to reach the R555 quickly. She often struggled with transport and the high taxi fares to get to her work,” Mnisi told Steelburger/Lydenburg News.
Within a month, Mnisi and Mosoma completed their project. They told the newspaper that at first people were scared to use the bridge.
“When the river got full, residents were left with no choice as to use it. About 50 people can cross the river with luggage and groceries at once. Small animals can also cross. It also has stairs.”
Asked about the safety measures, Mnisi responded with confidence that they had never had any casualties when people crossed the bridge.
“We never had any incidents. But we are seeking sponsors to upgrade the bridge as our government is failing us. This could be a tourist attraction if funds are available for upgrading.”
The duo, who are unemployed, said that equipment used in constructing the bridge cost more than R3 000.
When Steelburger/Lydenburg News visited the area, scores of people were seen using the bridge to cross the river.
Resident Zambia Masegare, who works in Steelpoort, remarked that the bridge saved locals travelling money.”I used to take two taxis from Mashifane to Steelpoort. Now, I only cross the bridge and hitch-hike to work for only R12.”
Masegare said it was a great initiative from the two men. They charge a meagre R1 per person to cross the river once.
