By Christopher Omondi
Residents of Nyawita in Railways Ward, Kisumu County, now have renewed hope following the official handover of the KSh 6 million Mbita Box Culvert Bridge project. This crucial milestone was marked in a ceremony attended by the City Department team, the project contractor, community members, and Ward Manager Madam Angela, all of whom stood together in a commitment to progress. The event was organized and documented by Siasa Place through its vibrant community engagement platforms.
For far too long, the dilapidated crossing at Mbita posed serious challenges for both Nyawita residents and students of Kudho School. During rainy seasons, children were forced to wade through treacherous floods or take perilous detours just to reach school. This project represents a significant victory for the community after years of persistent advocacy. Through Siasa Place’s Community Baraza and numerous petition letters, residents demanded a sustainable solution to prevent the mismanagement of funds that had plagued previous initiatives.
Community members welcomed the project but were clear about the need for accountability. As Joash Onyango, a resident of Nyawita, expressed, “We have celebrated bridges before that never lasted one rainy season. This time, we followed up, we wrote, we attended Barazas. We want to see quality work that will serve our children and mothers for years.” He emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “Our children risked their lives crossing here. Today marks a new beginning — better access, safer movement, and renewed hope for the community.”
Odhiambo Otieno, Programs Coordinator for the Kisumu Development Initiative (KDI), a community-based organization focused on infrastructure accountability and citizen participation, commended both the City and the local community for their determination to bring this project to fruition. “A box culvert is the ideal solution for a flood-prone area like Mbita, but the real test lies in the workmanship and maintenance,” he asserted. He urged the County to share the bill of quantities, involve the community in site supervision, and implement a maintenance plan from day one. “Projects succeed when citizens are treated as partners, not just beneficiaries. Siasa Place and other local groups must be empowered to monitor and report on progress.”
Ward Manager Madam Angela, present at the handover, highlighted the essence of responsive governance, stating, “The people spoke through Siasa Place and petitions, and the City has listened. We will work hand-in-hand with the contractor and the community to ensure this bridge is completed on time and meets the highest standards.”
The contractor and City Department team pledged that the box culvert design was specifically chosen for its durability and flood management capabilities. Their commitment included regular updates and active community involvement throughout the construction process.
