The Enziu Bridge along the Nguni–Nuu road remains a painful reminder of the December 2021 tragedy that claimed many lives when a bus carrying relatives and church members was swept away by floods. Only a few survived.
Years later, despite promises from various government leaders, including the President, the bridge is still less than 40% complete — with pillars standing halfway and no functional crossing in place.
President William Ruto announced the completion of the killer Bridge which began in December 2021, soon after it claimed at least 32 lives, but it stalled.
Speaking during Mashujaa Day Celebration in Kitui County on October 20,2025, Ruto announced his orders to the Cabinet Secretary for Roads and Transport Davis ChirChir in ensuring the bridge is completed.
According to Ruto the deadly Enziu bridge will be completed as of February 2026.
“Pale Enziu bridge iyo daraja imekua daraja ya maafa, mimi nataka niwaeleze sasa nimempatia waziri Chirchir maagizo kabla ya februari mvua iaanze mwaka ujao iyo daraja iwe imekamilika,” Ruto said.
Speaking in Mwingi, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki stated that the project stalled due to financial disputes with the contractor, but through his intervention, the matter has since been resolved.
He went on to say that the money that was at the centre of contention has been paid, and the contractor resumed work in May.
At the time, Kindiki assured residents that he will personally ensure the bridge does not stall again and that the remaining amount is paid as work on the bridge continues.
According to government reports, the Enziu Bridge is being constructed at a cost of Ksh165 million.
“Enziu Bridge has taken the lives of many people. It started and stalled because the contractor was demanding Sh91 million from the government. I want to announce that the bill was paid, and the contractor returned on May 14,” Kindiki said.
“This bridge will not stall again, and I will make sure that the remaining amount, another Sh74 million, is paid as work continues. It’s a big bridge that will cost Sh165 million. I want assure you that I will push for the completion of the bridge as soon as possible. It will not stall again.”
With the rains starting again, motorists using this route must exercise extreme caution. The temporary diversion provided by the contractor is very narrow — barely one lane. On busy days like the Nuu/Nguni market day, traffic stretches nearly a kilometer, creating a dangerous situation.
In the event of sudden flash floods upstream, vehicles stuck in traffic could easily be swept away due to limited road space and lack of proper safety measures.
The delayed completion of the bridge and the narrow diversion pose a serious risk. The responsible government agency and contractor must urgently address this before another tragedy strikes.
