African Design Magazine September 2016 | Page 63

African project Kukibuye Footbridge – Rwanda ootbridge in Rwanda mmer building a pedestrian chools, markets, and health were killed and seven were River near the northwestern e partnered with Bridges to dges to improve the lives of £45 000 to cover the cost of undraising to contribute an ditional £6 000 to the effort. T he people of Kukibuye have already prepared the foundations for the 42-meter suspension bridge in advance of the construction phase, which runs from July 18 to 31. The team will be working in close collaboration with the community throughout construction to share knowledge on building safe, efficient, and locally appropriate footbridges. Phil Borowiec, Arup engineer and Bridges to Prosperity trustee, said, “Arup have worked with Bridges to Prosperity for the last 5 years to help build these essential links that reconnect communities and provide safe passage for so many people. It’s a tremendously rewarding experience working with the local community and seeing first-hand the significant positive impact the bridge makes to their daily lives. We’re really pleased to partner with Bechtel this year, and we look forward to continuing our great work together.” PROJECT TEAM “Bechtel volunteers bring extensive experience and passion to this project for the citizens of Kukibuye. Our employee volunteers have partnered with Engineers Without Borders to help improve the lives of local citizens on projects in nine countries—bringing needed infrastructure to thousands of people. We are delighted to engage in this first assignment with Bridges to Prosperity and to team with Arup in this important work that will have a lasting impact on the village,” said Charlene Wheeless, Principal Vice President of Global Corporate Affairs for Bechtel Corporation.