GVH Rabu of the area of Sub T/A Masache says the absence of a bridge which connects Phandadzinja and Nankumba and the one which connects Kamchewere and Rabu villages has negatively impacted their livelihoods.

According to the traditional leader, the situation is putting lives of communities at stake adding that learners are struggling to make it to school.

“It is a hassle to access these villages as a result. We need bridges replaced because the current situation puts our lives at risk.

“The problem has not spared school going children who are now struggling to make it to cross to either side. We nearly lost the life of a child who was caught by a crocodile as he attempted to cross one of the rivers.

“The boy has just recovered but he sustained serious injuries,” lamented GVH Rabu.

He took advantage of Sunday’s Ilyas Karim trophy’s final match played at Rabu primary school ground, to voice out his concern.

The traditional leader added, “I implore our Member of Parliament to urgently look into such concerns.”

Member of Parliament for the area Ilyas Karim has assured the traditional leader and communities that the problem will be addressed.

“Let me assure the traditional leader and the community at large that I have discussed with ward councilors and Area Development Committee (ADC) on channeling this year’s Constituency Development Fund (CDF) towards such work.

“Besides, I have engaged various sectors and ministries to come in and assist. We have been assured that very soon they will come for assessment, the damaged infrastructure will be replaced before the rainy season,” explained Karim.

On sports, Karim said keeping the youth busy is critical so they avoid unnecessary behaviours adding that such trophies can make a difference in developing sports.

The Chikwawa South lawmaker pumped K10 million towards football and netball trophies.

Konzere FC emerged champions after outclassing Vega FC 2-1 and have pocketed K350, 000 whereas the latter got a consolation prize of K250, 000.