Every five years, people cast their votes, hoping for a better life after the elections. This was the case for the community of Vuyisile, who went to the polls on the 29th of May with the same hopes. However, frustrated by ongoing service delivery failures, the residents took matters into their own hands by constructing their own bridge. While not perfect, the bridge is functional and serves the community’s immediate needs.
When the Pondoland Times visited Vuyisile community, in Bizana under WInnie Madikizela Mandekela Local Municipality, we encountered three residents—Mr. Moris Dotye, Mr. Sicelo Manyu, and Mr. Wiseman Madikizela—who were actively repairing what appeared to be a makeshift bridge built by the community. These men, hailed as brave by their fellow residents, have taken on the responsibility of improving access to essential services.
Here’s what they shared:
- Tragic Loss: Four children have lost their lives attempting to cross the flooded river in the past.
- Vital Connection: The bridge connects five local schools, making it crucial for students.
- Municipal Awareness: The local municipality has visited the site and seen the bridge, but no action has been taken.
- Community Effort: The residents of Vuyisile built this bridge entirely on their own.
- Improved Access: The bridge significantly cuts travel time, making it easier for the community to reach the town and the tarred R61 road.
- Another Tragedy: An elderly person drowned while trying to cross the flooded river.
This initiative emphasizes the community’s resilience in the face of adversity, as they continue to tackle the challenges of poor service delivery on their own.
Follow this story to hear what the local municipality and other members of the community have to say about this.
