Hanoi: The Minister of Homeland Construction, Mikalou Sidib, inaugurated the Badara bridge in the commune of Bama on Tuesday. The bridge had been damaged by floods in 2024. The ceremony took place in the presence of the Minister, Secretary General of the Government and the Council of Ministers, Ousmane Ouattara, as well as a large crowd mobilized for the occasion.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the project, entirely financed by the Burkinabe government, cost 1.032 billion CFA francs. The bridge includes 14 culverts, each 4 meters wide and 5 meters high. The structure spans 63 meters in length and 10 meters in width.
Minister Mikalou Sidib emphasized that the opening of this project contributes to the well-being of the local population and road users. "This project is strategic and vital. National Route 9, on which it is located, serves a neighboring country, namely our sister Republic of Mali, but also many localities within our country where agricultural production is significant," he stated. He urged road users to exercise caution and civic responsibility to avoid any acts of vandalism that could damage the infrastructure.
Among local authorities, the joy was palpable. Flix Bay, president of the special delegation (PDS) of Bama, expressed relief over the reopening of the bridge after several months of hardship. He pledged, along with the entire population, to use it responsibly and to implement strict measures to ensure its protection.
The local population shared in the satisfaction. Mamadou Sanou expressed gratitude, noting that the bridge's closure had separated families and prevented access to health centers. "Words fail us to thank the government. Today, we are happy and satisfied with the work accomplished," he stated.
Mariam Sanou shared the sentiment, highlighting the impact on business activities. "The collapse of this bridge has impacted our business activities. This morning, we give thanks to God and we thank the authorities. We will now be able to travel without difficulty," she said.