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Zvamaida Murwira Senior Reporter
Zanu-PF candidate for Gokwe Mapfungautsi Cde Tawanda Karikoga has partnered communities in the area to repair bridges that link them with schools, clinics and other service centres.

Children from Chief Chisina in Ward 43 were either no longer going to school or were walking long distances owing to lack of functional bridges, particularly during rainy seasons.

Most of the bridges were destroyed by heavy rains, resulting in communities being disconnected from service centres.

Under the arrangement initiated by Cde Karikoga, the communities provide labour and bricks while he provides cement and other equipment.

At least four bridges have been repaired in Gwaneka, Nyarupakwa and Chitembetembe Village, among others.

“Several children were either no longer going to school or were travelling long distances to school which sapped their energy.

“We are doing this during this winter so that there would not be less traveling hassles for villagers,” said Cde Karikoga.

“We are working with the communities and Chief Chisina would supervise them. Community effort such as these are well appreciated and l will support such commitments by providing civil equipment to complement their efforts,” he said.

Resurfacing of Gwaneka bridge is expected to be completed soon said Cde Karikoga.

“My ultimate desire for me is to ensure people have improved infrastructure and social amenities, I will continue to serve my constituency with humility and virtue notwithstanding election results. I want to unite the young and old, rich and poor, so that we build our constituency together.

“The good thing about our development strategy is that we are not just developing the area but we are also developing people. Our work is interactive and we are building bonds,” said Cde Karikoga.

There was a hive of activity at the bridge when The Herald visited Chief Chisina area as villagers with wheelbarrows could be seen running around.

Several villagers commended Cde Karikoga for coming to their rescue.

“It has been a long time since we were disconnected from service centres such as schools business centres and clinics among other amenities.

“Cde Karikoga’s effort has gone a long way in alleviating our plight,” said Mr John Kambarami.