Outrage erupted in Zimbabwe after the unveiling of a newly commissioned US$70,000 (N54m) footbridge in Mutasa district. Residents and social media users alike were left incredulous, questioning whether the bridge, a seemingly modest structure, was really worth the hefty price tag.
The Premier South Footbridge, inaugurated by the Minister of State for Manicaland Province, Misheck Mugadza, was presented as a solution to improve safety and connectivity for a community near an active mining site. Government spokesperson Nick Mangwana shared images and details on X, revealing the US$70,000 cost and positioning the bridge as part of broader development plans for Manicaland.
But the announcement sparked immediate backlash online, with many questioning the priorities and value of such an investment. One social media user responded:
The announcement didn’t sit well with local leaders. Senator Chief James Mutasa said footbridges alone weren’t enough, pointing out that the community needs proper vehicle bridges to move goods and support local businesses. He warned that officials need to deliver infrastructure that really makes a difference.
Minister Mugadza, however, said more footbridges are planned in Tsvingwe and Nyakukwarara, calling them part of Manicaland’s “good development trajectory.” Still, many remain unconvinced, questioning whether US$70,000 is worth it and sparking fresh debates about priorities and public spending.
