DP World and Bridges to Prosperity connected four communities, transforming daily life for thousands of residents through sustainable infrastructure
Imagine being a 10-year-old schoolgirl like Akaliza in Kabeza, a remote Rwandan village near Kigali, and having to cross a dangerous river ravine just to reach your classroom. This was a daily reality for many residents in the area, with the river often flooding during the rainy season, making the crossing treacherous and isolating entire communities from essential services.
Thanks to the collaboration between DP World, local community members, government stakeholders, and Bridges to Prosperity (B2P), a new 50-meter trail bridge was built spanning the unstable ground and waterways that once divided four rural communities. This bridge now provides safe, year-round access for over 4,600 people, including 1,721 children, regardless of the weather conditions.
The impact of the bridge has been profound, with improved school attendance and better access to healthcare services reported by local residents. Mugisha, a 34-year-old community member, expressed gratitude for the initiative, highlighting the newfound sense of safety and relief the bridge has brought to the community.
Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, emphasized the significance of the bridge as a lifeline that showcases the real human impact of infrastructure projects. He commended the team for bringing DP World’s values to life and creating lasting change where it is most needed.
While DP World is known for its large-scale infrastructure projects in the logistics sector, this bridge represents a different kind of infrastructure focused on improving access for people. It addresses the crucial “first mile access” challenge, ensuring that individuals like Akaliza can safely reach school.
DP World’s partnership with B2P began in 2022, with the company providing core cables for the bridge from its Jebel Ali port. In a demonstration of deeper commitment, DP World volunteers, including engineers and logistics professionals, worked alongside local residents for two weeks to construct the bridge.
Juan Carlos, Group Chief Planning & Project Officer, DP World, reflected on the emotional experience of witnessing children crossing the bridge safely on its opening day, underscoring the tangible impact of infrastructure projects when built with a focus on people.
As part of its broader commitment to sustainable development, DP World operates the Kigali Logistics Platform in Masaka, facilitating trade and creating local employment opportunities. The bridge construction aligns with a national program launched by B2P and the Rwandan government to connect over 1 million Rwandans through the construction of 300 trail bridges by 2027.
Ayla Bajwa, SVP Group Sustainability at DP World, emphasized the power of global partnerships in building essential infrastructure that supports resilient and connected communities, reinforcing DP World’s values of collaboration, sustainability, and long-term impact.
With plans for more bridges across Africa in the pipeline, DP World continues to not only move goods but also unlock access, enhance livelihoods, and connect futures through sustainable infrastructure projects.
