The recent collapse of the access bridge to Kalemie Central Prison has brought to light a pressing issue that demands immediate attention from authorities. The disastrous event, attributed to rainwater and the Kalemie River, has not only raised concerns about the structural integrity of the bridge but also exposed the vulnerability of both inmates and staff within the prison premises.
The Minister of Infrastructure in the province, John Nseya, has sounded the alarm on the dire situation at Kalemie central prison following the bridge collapse. Despite attempts to propose a rehabilitation project for the footbridge to the General Inspectorate of Finance (IGF), bureaucratic hurdles have stalled progress, leaving the prison in a precarious state.
The construction of the bridge by Monusco/Kalemie in recent years has raised questions about the sustainability of the infrastructure. The lack of a protective wall and negligence in maintaining the river’s cleanliness have contributed to the bridge’s failure, jeopardizing the safety of those connected to the prison.
It is imperative for the relevant authorities to swiftly intervene and address this pressing issue to ensure the safety and well-being of all within the prison. The rehabilitation of the footbridge should be viewed not merely as a repair job but as a critical step in upholding the functionality of the prison and safeguarding the lives of its inhabitants.
The collapse of the access bridge highlights the urgent need for action at both local and national levels. It underscores the challenges faced by prisons in terms of infrastructure and security. Concrete measures must be taken to prevent such incidents from reoccurring, with a priority placed on ensuring the safety and dignity of the prisoners and staff at Kalemie Central Prison.
For more information, you can visit additional articles on related issues:
1. Collapse of the access bridge to Kalemie Central Prison – Media Congo