Kijungu

It’s undisputed fact that Daraja la Mungu (God’s Bridge) and Kijungu (pot hole) are the most visited attractions in Mbeya region with interesting narrative stories in the Southern Highlands of Tanzania. These attractions can be reached after 55 minutes’ drive from Mbeya town on the Mbeya -Malawi highway.

The word Kijungu is from Nyakyusa Language that means Chungu (Pothole). Kijungu accommodates the entire river Kiwira that flows into a pot-like hollow before flowing down the rocks and take its natural course. Kijungu acquired its name due to the ‘pot like’ shape of the base where the waterfall makes a whirlpool.

Less than 2 km from Kijungu the river continues its way through the volcanic rocks to the Natural Bridge, The local people calls it Daraja la Mungu which literally means a bridge made by God. It links the Lugambo and Mboyo villages at Lufingo ward. This bridge is made of rocky stone height of about 12 meters and the average height of 3 meters wide. This bridge is unique for its stylish style.

The first people to see God’s bridge were  known as Ndali People who are found on the west side of River Kiwira  during 1930 to 1950 when they were moving from west to east side of the river. These people were looking for a way to pursue east side, the main purpose was to exchange goods with Nyakyusa tribe as a part of gaining income to support their families and provide basic needs.