This archive report was first published on 24 August 2020.
On August 24, 2020, The Standard reported on a makeshift bridge in Kolenyo, Kisumu County, that had claimed the lives of at least 10 people.
The bridge, constructed by Nam Rajope for temporary use, connects Kalwande and Kanyadera villages and was meant to be a temporary solution until the main bridge was completed.
According to residents, the bridge has been a death trap since March 2020, with several people falling off and sustaining injuries.
One of the victims, Erick Ochieng, a 22-year-old boda boda rider, fell off the bridge two weeks ago and sustained deep cuts on his hand, neck, and shoulder.
His mother, Mary Lucy Atieno, said that Erick had gone to Kolenyo to repair his motorbike and was crossing the bridge with his brother as a passenger when they lost balance and fell.
Residents are now threatening to sue the contractor, Nam Rajope, for compensation, with some calling for the contractor to be held accountable for the lives lost.
However, the project manager, Geoffrey Awuonda, dismissed the residents' claims, blaming them for being drunk and careless while using the makeshift bridge.
