ENGODINI – Residents of Engodini under Ngwempisi Inkhundla gathered with pride and emotion as Phase 1 of the Mhlatane low-level crossing was officially handed over to the community.
The structure, which will serve around 120 people, was delivered through the Microprojects Programme and marks a significant improvement in access and mobility for the rural area, which has long struggled with connectivity during the rainy season.
Community development committee chairperson Bongani Dlamini expressed gratitude to those behind the project, recalling the difficulty residents once faced in getting to Engodini. “Today, when people ask if it’s possible to reach Engodini, we answer with pride,” he said.
He described the new structure as more than just a bridge, calling it a permanent legacy and proof of Microprojects’ support for rural communities. Dlamini also praised the unity shown by residents, who took part in meetings and coordinated efforts throughout construction.
Regional Project Officer Phinda Dlamini applauded the cooperation between the contractor and locals during the build. He explained that the crossing is now under a one-year Defect Liability Period, during which Microprojects will carry out routine checks to assess its performance under different weather conditions.
During the event, the community was invited to raise any concerns or feedback regarding the crossing, in line with Microprojects’ participatory approach to development.
Ngwempisi MP Bhekibandla Vilakati, who attended the ceremony, said the sight of the completed crossing moved him. He recalled how schoolchildren were once stranded during the wet season, unable to cross the river to reach their classrooms. He called on residents to maintain the spirit of involvement as Microprojects continues with road construction in the area.
Albert Dlamini, speaking on behalf of the community, thanked the contractor and highlighted the teamwork that made the project successful. He said biweekly meetings between residents played a key role in identifying and resolving challenges early.
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