Harare-Masvingo Road Accident Leaves Nine Dead and Dozens Injured
A fatal road accident has claimed the lives of nine people and injured 31 others on the Harare-Masvingo Road. The accident occurred at around 6:00 am on Friday when a Toyota Caravan kombi with 18 occupants collided with a mini bus carrying 22 passengers at the 192 km peg.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has confirmed the incident and revealed that the bodies of the victims have been taken to Mvuma Hospital mortuary for post-mortem. In addition, 20 of the injured passengers are receiving treatment at the same hospital, while the remaining 11 are admitted at Gweru Hospital.
In a short statement, police spokesperson assistant commissioner Paul Nyathi said,
“The ZRP confirms a fatal road traffic accident which occurred today at around 0600 hours where nine people were killed whilst 31 others were injured when a Toyota Caravan kombi with 18 occupants and a mini bus with 22 occupants collided at the 192 km peg along Harare-Masvingo Road.
“The bodies of the nine victims were taken to Mvuma Hospital mortuary for post-mortem while 20 injured passengers are admitted at the same hospital.
“The other 11 injured passengers are admitted at Gweru Hospital. “
Investigations into the cause of the accident are ongoing, and the ZRP has assured the public that more details will be released in due course.
The Community Reacts
News of the tragedy has left the local community in shock and disbelief. Many took to social media to express their condolences and offer their prayers to the victims and their families.
One Facebook user commented, “This is just heartbreaking. My thoughts and prayers go out to everyone affected by this tragedy. May the souls of the departed rest in peace.”
Another user wrote, “It’s so sad to hear about this. We need to do more to promote road safety and prevent these senseless accidents from happening.”
Calls for Improved Road Safety
The accident has once again highlighted the need for improved road safety measures in Zimbabwe. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), road traffic accidents are a leading cause of death in the country, with an estimated 1,800 people killed on the roads each year.