Mbogolo Bridge Collapse Causes Section of Mombasa-Malindi Highway to Submerge

The Mbogolo bridge on the Mombasa Malindi highway has become impassable due to severe floods that washed away a section of the bridge.

The floods have resulted in the complete destruction of the approach road on the Mombasa side. Moreover, a section of the highway close to Mtondia, a few kilometres away from Kilifi town, is now submerged, rendering it impassable. Consequently, vehicles are unable to navigate through these areas, compelling passengers to disembark near the bridge and proceed on foot across another bridge that is presently under construction.

Mnarani Ward Member of County assembly Juma Chengo holds the contractor accountable for the highway repairs responsible for obstructing waterways and constraining the river's path, thereby hindering the natural water flow. Anderson Charo, a nearby resident, has experienced considerable damage as his possessions, including two cows and a goat, were carried away by the river's current. Furthermore, matatu drivers plying this route have been negatively impacted, as they now incur additional costs to transport their passengers in alternative vehicles to their intended destinations.

To alleviate the difficulties faced on the roads, the drivers are encouraging the government to hasten the construction of the new bridge to enable a more seamless flow of traffic. The head of state has reiterated his commitment to protecting Kenyans amidst the ongoing torrential rains.

"We condole with the families of the victims of the ongoing intense downpour and flooding in some parts of the country. We are pained by the loss of lives in Kwale, Mombasa, Samburu and, lately, Makueni County among other places. The Government will act to secure Kenyans." the President said.