Opposition Citizens First (CF) Serenje Central Parliamentary Candidate Aubrey Mashawa is concerned that Lumpampa families are struggling after losing the bridge and the basic school.
Mashawa explained this means small children and parents are now forced to travel all the way to Serenje Boma just for basic access, which is costly, risky, and unfair.
Speaking on his campaign trail, Mashawa highlighted that residents of Lumpampa Area, Chisangwa Ward, raised concerns about the state of Munte Bridge and the removal of the basic school at Lumpampa Primary.
He stressed that no child should have to risk their safety crossing a damaged bridge, and no parent should have to send a 14–15 year old all the way to Serenje Boma just to access Form 1.
Mashawa emphasised that education and safe passage are basic rights, not privileges.
He acknowledged the frustration and fatigue of parents who now carry extra transport costs and worry every rainy season.
Mashawa insisted their complaint is valid, and it must be treated as urgent.
He pledged that if given the mandate on 13th August, he will prioritise for Lumpampa a Munte Bridge – Safety First.
Mashawa outlined immediate work with RDA and District to assess the bridge and put temporary crossing measures before the next rains so no child should risk that crossing.
He proposed a medium term push for Munte Bridge to be captured under CDF and RDA rural bridge programme.
Mashawa underlined that a safe, all-weather bridge is non-negotiable for Chisangwa Ward to access markets, clinics, and schools.
He promised Lumpampa Primary School will restore access.
Mashawa committed to engage Ministry of Education and DEBS immediately to understand why the basic section was removed.
He explained that if it was due to teacher numbers or infrastructure, solutions must be found – not just remove the school.
Mashawa vowed to push for reinstatement of Form 1s at Lumpampa through CDF school infrastructure and teacher housing.
He noted that if full reinstatement takes time, a satellite or streamed basic school should be set up as an interim measure.
Mashawa planned for transport safety while the issue is being fixed, engaging the council on safe transport options for pupils who must go to Serenje Boma so parents do not carry the full burden.
He stressed the core principle that one ward should not develop at the cost of another. Chisangwa Ward, and Lumpampa especially, must not be left behind.
Mashawa committed to return to Lumpampa with DEBS and RDA officers within the first 100 days to sit with residents, inspect Munte Bridge, and get a timeline.
He affirmed that residents deserve answers, not promises. Serenje develops when every area develops. Lumpampa matters.
