Residents of Ngoliba in Kiambu County have opposed an alleged plan to move the Soya Bridge linking Thika and Gatanga constituencies in Kiambu and Murang’a counties, describing the structure as a vital lifeline for thousands of residents.
They said they received with shock reports that the bridge that was constructed in 2022 at a cost of Sh25 million after the previous crossing was swept away by floods, would be dismantled and installed at another location within Thika Constituency. They added that they became suspicious after spotting some earth moving equipment at site, indication that they were set to remove the bridge.
Speaking at the site, residents led by Simon Shikuku said they were initially informed that the bridge would undergo repairs due to damage caused by heavy trucks after one side started sagging. However, they later received information suggesting it would be removed altogether, a proposal they strongly opposed.
“We cannot accept that because this bridge serves our people every day. Instead of moving it, the government should repair it where it stands because one side has already started sagging,” said Shikuku.
Another resident, Scolastica Kalondu, said the community would resist any attempt to remove the bridge, noting that it has become an essential link for farmers, traders, schoolchildren and patients seeking healthcare.
“This bridge has transformed our lives. It enables farmers to access markets, children to go to school safely and residents to reach hospitals without taking long and expensive alternative routes. We will not allow it to be taken away,” she said.
The residents urged the government to rehabilitate the bridge, saying repairing the damaged section was the best solution.
Former Thika Town MP, Patrick Wainaina, backed the residents, saying the bridge was built to end years of pain and struggle for communities living on both sides of River Thika. He recalled that before the bridge was constructed, several pupils had lost their lives while attempting to cross the hippo-infested river.
“Between 2018 and 2019, six Class Six pupils fell into the river and five of them drowned. We cannot allow selfish individuals to interfere with a project that has saved lives and improved the welfare of our people,” said Wainaina.
He said the bridge remains critical to agriculture, trade, education and access to healthcare for residents of both Kiambu and Murang’a counties, and appealed to the government to repair the damaged section to guarantee the safety of users.
By Muoki Charles
