A Chinese firm, Chinese Overseas Engineering Group, has now taken responsibility for the collapse of the Sh1.2 Billion Sigiri Bridge in Budalangi, Busia County.
Chinese Overseas Engineering Group was the firm in charge of the construction of the Sigiri Bridge that collapsed on Monday morning.
Speaking to the Nation, the Project Manager, Jerome Xzue Hua, expressed surprise at the incident stating: “This is very unusual because all the standards and specification required by the employer were met.”
He, however, defended the company against claims that they did not adhere to the set standards when putting up the bridge.
“We have experienced engineers and we are equally baffled by what happened. We hope to find the root cause of the problem and rectify the matter,” Hua stated, adding that the bridge can be repaired.
At least 10 workers sustained minor injuries during the incident and were rushed to the nearby Port Victoria Hospital.
The collapse of the bridge, which was a signature project for the Jubilee government in the area, came two weeks after President Uhuru Kenyatta visited the area to inspect the construction.
The incident degenerated into a hot debate, with both sides of the political divide shifting blame.
Supporters of Jubilee termed the incident as economic sabotage blaming it on the Opposition.
On the other hand, a section of Kenyans condemned the government and questioned the Sh1.2 billion amount pumped into the project.
During the inspection of the project, the President expressed satisfaction that the construction of the bridge would prevent deaths and make it easier for people to access hospitals, schools and markets.
Kenyatta assured Budalangi residents that the Sigiri bridge would be completed by mid-July.
