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President Emmerson Mnangagwa has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic Bulawayo Road accident that claimed eight lives and left eleven others injured at the Dzivarasekwa turn-off. In an official statement, the President described the accident as a national tragedy and emphasized the urgent need for enhanced road safety measures to combat the rising number of fatal crashes.
Mnangagwa condemned the reckless driving and the presence of unroadworthy vehicles, which continue to contribute to the mounting loss of lives on the country’s roads. “The loss of eight precious lives and the injuries sustained by others is an event that shocks and saddens us all,” said Mnangagwa. “The continued loss of life on our roads is unacceptable, and we must take steps to ensure that this never happens again.”
In a show of compassion, the President announced that the government would provide state-assisted funerals for the victims, relieving their families of the financial burden during this painful time. “The government will cover all funeral expenses for those who lost their lives in this heartbreaking tragedy. We stand with the grieving families and will ensure they are given dignified burials,” he said.
The President also called for stricter enforcement of Zimbabwe’s traffic laws, urging law enforcement agencies to intensify efforts to address reckless driving and unsafe practices in public transport. “We must take decisive action to ensure that traffic laws are followed, and penalties for violations are enforced,” Mnangagwa declared. “This will ensure safer roads for everyone.”
Highlighting Zimbabwe’s commitment to regional road safety standards, the President reminded citizens that the country is a signatory to the SADC Protocol on Transport, which seeks to harmonize road safety measures across Southern Africa. In light of this, he called on authorities to increase public awareness campaigns, particularly regarding new traffic regulations such as the first-in, first-out rule at intersections to reduce the risk of collisions.
As the nation comes to terms with the tragedy, Mnangagwa extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and wished those recovering from their injuries a swift and full recovery. “May the souls of the departed rest in peace, and I send my best wishes for a speedy recovery to all those who were injured in the crash,” he said.
This heartbreaking accident serves as a stark reminder of the collective responsibility we all share to ensure safer roads in Zimbabwe. With government support now assisting families through this difficult time, the President’s message stresses the importance of unity in fostering a culture of road safety.
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