Update on Fatal Road Traffic Accident Along Harare-Bulawayo Road

By Ilyana Sithole

In a press statement released earlier today, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) gave an update regarding the tragic road traffic collision that occurred on December 8, 2024, at approximately 3:30 AM at the 330-kilometre peg along the Harare-Bulawayo Road.

The accident involved an Inter Africa bus with 43 passengers onboard, which collided with the rear of a stationary Freightliner truck. The devastating impact resulted in the immediate deaths of seven individuals at the scene, while 22 others sustained injuries. Of the injured, six were treated and discharged from Gweru Provincial Hospital, while 16 remain hospitalized.

Five of the deceased victims have since been positively identified by their next of kin as:

– Mutanga Brian, a male adult from Bocha, Marange
– Manyise Madubeko (45), a male adult from 4th Street, Bulawayo
– Ncube Sinqobile (43), a female adult from Xanti Village, Esigodini
– Muchemwa Matienga (62), a male adult from Lasper Road, Harrisvale, Bulawayo
– Mafukidze Edmen Collin (39), a male adult from Overspill, Epworth

The identities of the remaining two victims have yet to be confirmed.

In a separate incident that occurred on the same day at approximately 1:30 AM at the 72-kilometre peg along the Harare-Wedza Road, a Nissan pick-up truck veered off the road and collided with a stationary Scania truck. The driver of the pick-up was killed, and a passenger sustained injuries. The deceased was taken to Marondera Provincial Hospital for a post-mortem, while the injured individual is receiving care at the same facility.

Given the unfortunate tragic events, the ZRP is urging all motorists to exercise extreme caution on the roads, particularly during early morning and nighttime hours. They emphasize the importance of adhering to speed limits and following all road rules and regulations to ensure the safety of all road users.

As investigations into both accidents continue, the ZRP extends its condolences to the families affected and encourages the community to remain vigilant and responsible while on the roads.