A Night of Progress: The Collaborative Road Construction
By Linus Tigiti, SJ
On Thursday, August 29, 2024, the community of Bonga witnessed a remarkable transformation as a collaborative road construction project unfolded, involving the government of Bonga, the Jesuits, and a contractor. This initiative was driven by the urgent need to repair a section of the road that had succumbed to the ravages of heavy rains over the past month, which had severely hampered the transportation of essential construction materials. As the day transitioned into night, the commitment and teamwork of all parties involved illuminated the path toward progress.
The Construction Process: From Dawn to Dusk
The construction activities commenced at the break of dawn, embodying the African saying, “Rising early makes the road short.” The team worked diligently throughout the day and into the night, employing advanced machinery to ensure the road’s restoration.
Collaboration and Community Support
In this endeavor, the government of Bonga played a crucial role by providing the necessary materials for the project. The Jesuits and the contractor’s engineers oversaw the supervision of the construction work, demonstrating the proverb, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” This collaboration was essential in effectively addressing the road’s deteriorated condition. Despite the challenges posed by inclement weather, the team successfully filled in the damaged sections of the road. The completion of this repair work not only improved access for vehicles but also supported ongoing construction activities in the area, particularly for transporting materials to the site of the Ariyo Catholic Learning Institute.
A Testament to Unity and Resilience
This joint effort exemplifies the importance of collaboration between governmental bodies, religious organizations, and contractors in addressing community infrastructure needs. As the African proverb states, “Many hands make light work.” By working together, the team was able to overcome obstacles and deliver a vital improvement to Bonga’s road network, reinforcing the community’s resilience and connectivity. As the night fell, the lights from the construction site shone brightly, a symbol of hope and determination. “Even the longest night will end, and the sun will rise,” reminds us that through hard work and unity, progress is always within reach.
