Chilonga Bridge Collapse: A Crisis for Education in Chiredzi

The Situation
Chilonga Bridge – a critical link between Chiredzi town and 54 schools (40 primary, 14 secondary) – has been completely destroyed by rising floodwaters. Even as waters recede, the bridge remains impassable, cutting off vital access to education for thousands of students and teachers.

The Impact
• 54 schools now face severe access challenges
• Students risk missing classes/exams
• Teachers struggle with daily commutes
• Education supplies can’t reach schools
• Potential long-term learning disruptions

A Human-Made Disaster?
Disturbing reports suggest local boatsmen may be deliberately keeping the bridge unusable:
• Allegedly plugging holes to maintain flooding
• Charging fees for alternative river crossings
• Potentially prioritizing profit over community needs

Affected Schools (Partial List)
Primary: Chilonga, Gwaseche, Majijimba, Malisanga, Boli, Makambe
Secondary: Chilonga High, Chambuta Baptist, Chibwedziva High, Malipati High

Call to Action
This crisis demands:

1. Immediate bridge repairs/alternative solutions
2. Investigation into potential sabotage
3. Emergency education continuity plans
4. Protection of students’ right to education

The collapse represents more than infrastructure failure – it’s an attack on educational access in Chiredzi. Urgent intervention is needed to restore this vital education lifeline.