President Emmerson Mnangagwa has declared the horrific accident that occurred on the Beitbridge-Masvingo Highway a national disaster. The tragic head-on collision between an Urban Connect bus and a haulage truck claimed 25 lives and left several others injured.
President’s Appeal for Road Safety and Condolences
“The death of 25 Zimbabweans in this catastrophic accident has left me horrified and heartbroken,” said Mnangagwa. “Our nation does not deserve such a calamity, especially at the beginning of the year. I urge all motorists to exercise extreme caution for the sake of their own lives and others.”
The President also instructed all government bodies responsible for road safety to intensify their efforts and use every available legal means to reduce the carnage on Zimbabwean roads.
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“My heartfelt condolences go to the families who have lost their loved ones. I wish a speedy recovery to all those who were injured and are currently hospitalized,” he added.
The Accident: What Happened?
The tragedy unfolded early yesterday morning around 7 am, just 26 kilometers from Beitbridge at the Tshapfuche tollgate. An Urban Connect bus collided head-on with a haulage truck transporting magnesium to Chirundu. Witnesses described the chaotic scene as bodies and limbs were scattered around the accident site.
Of the 25 casualties, 17 died instantly at the scene, while the others succumbed to their injuries at Beitbridge District Hospital. The bus driver, Chris Chitsaga, survived the crash but was found clinging to his steering wheel after being thrown from the vehicle.
Eyewitness Accounts and Possible Causes
According to eyewitnesses, the bus driver attempted to overtake two vehicles just 150 meters from the tollgate, resulting in the fatal collision. A local villager, identified only as Foster, recounted the harrowing moments leading up to the crash.
“The bus overtook a car and a truck before slamming into the haulage truck. It all happened in less than 500 meters,” said Foster. Witnesses largely blamed the accident on human error.
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Emergency Response and Rescue Efforts
Rescue teams, including emergency services from the Municipality of Beitbridge, police, and the Department of Civil Protection, quickly arrived at the scene. Beitbridge Mayor Peter Mafuta and town clerk Loud Ramakgapola were among the first responders, assisting with the rescue operation.
Beitbridge District Medical Officer Dr. Linos Samhere confirmed that 56 people were admitted to the hospital with varying degrees of injuries. Sadly, eight of those admitted passed away. “We transferred 10 patients to Gwanda and Bulawayo for specialized care,” said Samhere.
Urban Connect and Local Authorities Respond
Urban Connect management expressed their condolences and pledged full cooperation with the ongoing investigation. “We are offering compassionate assistance to the bereaved families and providing support to the injured,” said the bus company in a statement.
Mayor Mafuta emphasized the need for stricter measures to prevent similar accidents. “There is a serious need for speed governors on buses. We cannot afford to keep losing lives in these circumstances,” he said.
