Clerics urge speed in construction of Kitui’s Enziu bridge

Pastors from the Africa Inland Church (AIC) have renewed calls for the government to fast-track the construction of the Enziu bridge, nearly four years after a fatal accident at the crossing claimed 32 lives.

The clerics raised the issue during a Christian Men Fellowship graduation ceremony held at AIC Muangeni in Nuu, where they expressed concern over delays in implementing earlier commitments to construct the bridge.

Led by Yuvenails Nyaigero, the pastors recalled the December 4, 2021 tragedy in which a bus belonging to St Joseph’s Seminary, Mwingi, was swept away by floodwaters while attempting to cross the river on its way to a wedding ceremony in Nuu.

The bus was carrying members of the Mwingi Catholic Church choir and other Christians. Reports at the time indicated that the vehicle lost control after floodwaters overwhelmed the crossing, causing it to slide into the river and become submerged.

Thirty-two people died, while 12 others, including four children, survived.

Nyaigero said the continued absence of a bridge remained a concern for residents who depend on the crossing, particularly during the rainy season.

“Residents who rely on this crossing continue to face challenges. It is painful that lives were lost here, promises were made, yet the danger still remains,” he said.

The clerics urged the government to prioritise the project, noting that the crossing plays a key role in transport, trade and access to essential services for the surrounding communities.

During the same event, church leaders also raised concerns about what they described as the growing neglect of the boy child.

Nyaigero observed that while initiatives aimed at empowering girls were important, there was a need for greater attention to the challenges facing boys.

Church elder Boniface Kitheka called for deliberate efforts by the church and the wider community to mentor boys, particularly in spiritual and moral development.

“The boy child is being left out, and this has had negative consequences. We must invest our time, energy and teachings in guiding them,” Kitheka said.

He encouraged the graduates to serve as positive role models within their communities and to mentor fellow men and young people, emphasising the importance of strong values.

Another church elder, John Muthi, urged the graduates to take the lessons seriously, saying such programmes play a role in strengthening families and promoting social cohesion.