Hlanganani Suspension Bridge

Project Statement

I had the privilege of serving as the student Design Engineer for the Hlanganani Suspension Bridge in Eswatini, the first suspension bridge built by a student team. The 48.86-meter bridge replaces a dangerous rock crossing over the Lugongodlane River, where seasonal flooding had caused four deaths and five injuries in three years. It now provides safe, year-round access for approximately 3,000 residents and 2,120 children to schools, healthcare, markets, churches, and other essential community services. During the eight-week project, I produced technical drawings and structural calculations using AutoCAD and Excel, surveyed the site with an auto level, verified excavations, set cable sag to the required specifications, and adapted calculations to address on-site design changes. Beyond engineering responsibilities, I worked alongside community members on construction tasks, including excavating foundations, carrying cement, mixing concrete, and bending rebar. This experience strengthened my technical, problem-solving, and collaborative skills while demonstrating architecture and engineering's ability to create meaningful community impact.