Nyakuza – Residents of Nyakuza and surrounding areas in the Shiselweni region erupted in celebration following the completion of a new suspended footbridge that now connects three rural communities across the iNgwavuma River.
The 127-metre-long structure—now the longest footbridge in Eswatini—was officially unveiled by Engineers in Action in partnership with the Microprojects Programme under the Ministry of Economic Planning and Development. The footbridge links the communities of Liba, eBufaneni, and the Lushini Chiefdom, with Liba and eBufaneni expected to benefit most from the improved access to schools, clinics, markets, and nearby villages.
Marking the 32nd bridge completed by Engineers in Action since 2017, the project was driven by a team of student volunteers who worked for two months under challenging conditions. Some fell ill and had to be taken to nearby clinics during the build, yet they pressed on until the structure was complete. 
During a community gathering to mark the handover, Ana Jovanavic, Programme Manager for Engineers in Action, acknowledged the students’ resilience. She said the footbridge represents more than infrastructure—it reflects their dedication, teamwork, and spirit of service.
Director of the Microprojects Programme, Sibusiso Mbingo, praised the contributions of the students and recognised the support of local families, particularly the Sikhondze family, who hosted the volunteers. He urged other homesteads to mirror their example. Mbingo said the bridge would serve the most vulnerable and improve daily life for those who previously risked injury or worse trying to cross the river.
Sifiso Mabuza, Member of Parliament for the area, applauded the project but criticised low community participation during the construction phase. He encouraged locals to take greater ownership of future development efforts. Mabuza said he could now rest easy knowing his inkhundla hosts the country’s longest footbridge.
Student representative Quinn Mair thanked the Sikhondze homestead for their hospitality and acknowledged team leader Tholakele Simelane for helping them connect with the local community. Mair said the students hope the bridge will serve generations to come.
Chief Mgwazephasi Ndlela of eBufaneni commended the engineers, local officials, and the students for bringing lasting infrastructure to the area. He urged residents to make full use of the bridge and avoid past tragedies that occurred while attempting to cross the river.
