Free State Premier MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae officially handed over the Roma pedestrian bridge at Tseki Roma on Thursday, 8 October 2026, marking a significant milestone in the province’s efforts to improve rural infrastructure and community safety. The Premier was joined by Community Safety, Roads and Transport MEC Jabu Mbalula and Public Works and Infrastructure MEC Dibolelo Mance for the handover ceremony.
The bridge, which spans a dangerous crossing point, is expected to provide safe passage for learners, workers, and residents who previously risked their lives navigating busy roads or crossing during flooding. The project forms part of the provincial government’s broader infrastructure development programme aimed at addressing historical backlogs and enhancing the quality of life in rural communities.
Speaking at the event, Premier Letsoha-Mathae emphasised the importance of infrastructure that serves the people. “This bridge is not just concrete and steel, it is a lifeline,” she said. “It means children can go to school safely, parents can get to work without fear, and communities can access essential services. This is what government is supposed to do: deliver tangible improvements that change lives.”
The Roma pedestrian bridge is one of several infrastructure projects being rolled out across the Free State, with a focus on rural areas that have long been neglected. The provincial government has committed to accelerating the delivery of roads, bridges, water, and sanitation infrastructure as part of its mandate to promote inclusive development.
Community members expressed joy and relief at the handover, with many noting that the bridge would significantly reduce the risk of accidents and drownings. Local leaders praised the Premier and her team for prioritising their needs and delivering on their promises.
As the ribbon was cut and the first pedestrians crossed the new bridge, the message was clear: infrastructure is not an abstract policy goal, it is a practical, life-changing intervention that restores dignity and strengthens communities. For the people of Tseki Roma, the new bridge is a symbol of progress and a step toward a safer, more connected future.
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