Trade and movement of people between Munini and Busanze sectors in Nyaruguru District is expected to improve following the launch of a new bridge linking the two areas. The bridge on River Giswi was constructed under a partnership between Nyaruguru District and Bridge to Prosperity, a non-governmental organisation, and CH2M, a consulting company.

Speaking during the official launch of the bridge last week, Antoine Bisizi, the Nyaruguru District vice-mayor for finance and economic development,  urged residents to take advantage of the bridge and boost business activities between the two sectors and the district in general.

"This is an opportunity for you to start up more income-generating activities now that it has become easy to access markets. This way, you will be able to improve your household income and livelihoods,” Bisizi said.

The Rwf17million bridge is 60 meters in length, one meter wide and stands seven meters above water. Residents told  The New Times that before construction of the bridge, they could not easily access Gatunda Market located in Busanze sector, while students who study at Groupe Scholaire Runyombyi also found it hard to reach school. They said the bridge will also ease movement of patients going for treatment at Munini Hospital.

Frederick Mudage, a resident of Munini sector, hailed the government and development partners for the facility, saying it will significantly improve access to Gatunda Market, one of the main produce markets in the district.

" Previously, it was difficult to go to Gatunda Market and we feared sending our children to school across the river. But now the problem has been solved and I believe this will spur development,” Mudage said.

He added that the project provided the population with employment opportunities and hence boosted their income.

Speaking at the launch, Brooke Sergeberg, the country director of Bridge to Prosperity, hailed residents for their role in construction activities, but challenged them to preserve it to ensure its sustainability.

Brooke also thanked the Rwanda Transport Development Agency (RTDA) for removing taxes on the construction materials used during the bridge construction.