By Bevan Musoko
Following the devastating Cyclone Idai that hit Chimanimani and Chipinge districts early this year, South African Defence Forces so far have spent over 50 million Rands in constructing bridges and access roads, the Harare Post has learnt.
Both South African and Zimbabwean troops have been working together in constructing the two bridges at Nyahode and Rusitu rivers.
A 42 metres long bailey bridge has been constructed across Nyahode River by the cooperating armies. This bridge is strategic in that it links the local communities with Ngorima Clinic which had been cut-off after the Cyclone.
Another 27 metre long bailey bridge was also constructed across Rusitu River at its confluence with Nyahode River at Kopa Business Centre. This bridge is also strategic in that it supports the local horticulture based economy by linking the business centre with neighbouring Mozambique and simplifying transportation of goods.
Members of the South African National Defence Force and soldiers under the Zimbabwe Army Engineers Corps who spoke to Harare Post disclosed that the South Africans have so far spent over R50 million on the relief efforts. The sources also disclosed that, that was a first of its own in terms of joint relief efforts by the two armies.
The South Africans deployed their earth moving machinery that was pivotal in the construction of the two bridges. The Ministry of Local Government and Public Works also provided an excavator and a bulldozer that complimented the ZDF and SANDF equipment.
An SANDF soldier who spoke to Harare Post on condition of anonymity said the cooperation demonstrated by the SANDF and ZDF was a clear sign that, despite the economic and other challenges facing two nations, it was possible to secure funds for the relief efforts.
He added that it also demonstrated that Africans can, on their own and using their resources, make a difference in such calamitous situations, as opposed to waiting for Western interventions each time there are such disasters.
He also disclosed that the South Africans were impressed by the level of efficiency and discipline exhibited by members of the ZDF.
