The construction of Mwogo Bridge, which links Nyamagabe, Nyanza and Ruhango districts, has reached 68 per cent completion, with the project expected to be completed in early 2027.
The bridge is being built over the Mwogo River in the Mwogo wetlands. Once completed, it will measure 60 metres in length and 11 metres in width, with the capacity to carry vehicles and cargo weighing up to 60 tonnes.
Rwanda Transport Development Agency (RTDA), says the infrastructure is expected to improve movement between communities in the three districts by making it easier for people and goods to cross the area.
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The bridge is also expected to support agricultural trade by improving farmers’ access to markets.
Leonard Ndagijimana, a cassava farmer in Ruhango District, said transporting agricultural produce to Nyamagabe currently takes about two and a half hours, making the journey time-consuming for farmers who depend on the market to sell their harvest.
He said the completion of Mwogo Bridge and its connecting road is expected to shorten travel time and make it easier for farmers to move their produce between the districts.
"We have always transported our goods to Nyamagabe, and it takes about two and a half hours. We hope the road and the bridge will reduce travel time and make movement easier for people,” he said.
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Diane Uwizeye, a parent in Nyanza District, said the poor condition of the bridge had made movement difficult for residents for a long time, particularly those travelling between communities to access essential services.
She said completing the bridge would bring relief to families by making journeys to schools, health centres and markets easier and reducing the time spent travelling.
"We have struggled with this crossing for a long time because it has not been in good condition. Having a proper bridge will make a big difference for us. It will make it easier for our children to get to school, for families to reach health facilities and for people to move between the districts without so many difficulties,” she said.
The Rwf 1.6 billion project is part of wider efforts to improve transport infrastructure and rural connectivity.