Frequently asked questions.
-
Bridging the Gap Africa is a nonprofit organization dedicated to building pedestrian footbridges in rural Kenya. Our mission is to build safe and reliable pedestrian footbridges that prevent accidental drownings and ensure uninterrupted access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities for rural communities.
-
In many rural areas of Kenya, communities are separated by rivers that can become impassable during the rainy season. These rivers prevent access to critical resources such as schools, healthcare, and markets. Our footbridges provide a safe passage, reducing the risk of drowning and ensuring that people can access the services they need year-round.
-
Bridge locations are determined based on the needs of the community. Local leaders and community members initiate the request for a bridge by identifying the dangerous crossing points. Our team then conducts a thorough assessment to determine the feasibility and impact of building a bridge in that location.
-
The construction of each bridge is a collaborative effort between Bridging the Gap Africa’s team of engineers and the local community. We hire and train local laborers to work alongside our engineers, ensuring that the community is involved in every step of the process. This approach not only builds bridges but also builds local capacity and ownership.
-
After the completion of a bridge, we work with the community to establish a maintenance plan. The local bridge committee is trained and equipped with the knowledge to take care of the bridge, ensuring its longevity and safety for years to come.
-
There are several ways to support our work. You can donate to our bridge-building projects, participate in our fundraising campaigns, or even volunteer your time and skills. Every contribution helps us build more bridges and connect more communities.
-
Contact us to find out about volunteering opportunities
-
Yes, donations made to Bridging the Gap Africa are tax-deductible. We are a registered nonprofit 501(c)(3)
organization, and we will provide you with a receipt for your donation that you can use for tax purposes.
-
EIN/Tax ID number: 13-422-3509. Bridging the Gap Africa, Inc. is a registered nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization and is recognized by the IRS of the USA.
-
You can stay informed by
, following us on social media, and regularly visiting our
. We share updates on ongoing projects, stories from the communities we serve, and opportunities for involvement.
-
Yes, we welcome visitors who are interested in seeing our work firsthand. If you are planning a trip to Kenya and would like to visit one of our bridge sites, please
contact us
in advance to arrange a visit.
-
Sustainability is a key focus for us. We use durable materials and innovative designs to ensure the longevity of our bridges. Additionally, by involving the community in both the construction and maintenance processes, we empower them to take ownership of the bridge, ensuring it remains a vital resource for generations to come.
-
The cost of a bridge depends on several factors, including the span of the bridge, its location, and transportation logistics. On average, a Bridging the Gap Africa bridge costs approximately $1,000 per meter.