Africa Day Holiday Sees Rise in Fatalities Despite Overall Drop in Accidents

The 2025 Africa Day holiday weekend recorded a concerning increase in road traffic fatalities and fatal accidents despite an overall decrease in the number of reported crashes.

By Vongai Masuka

According to statistics released today by the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) seven people died in road accidents across the country this past weekend, up from six fatalities during the same period in 2024.

The number of fatal accidents also rose to seven from six in the previous year.
Overall, the ZRP reported 128 road traffic accidents during the 2025 Africa Day holiday, a notable decrease from the 190 recorded in 2024.

The number of people injured also fell to 22 this year, compared to 35 in 2024.

Meanwhile, the ZRP has released the identities of four victims who perished in a tragic road traffic accident yesterday at the 30-kilometre peg along the Masvingo-Mbalabala Road.

The deceased have been identified by their next of kin as follows:
-Lazarus Takanyara (47), a male adult from DISO, Mashava.
-Albert Gwaimani (47), a male adult from C93 Lenox Mine, Mashava.
-Ashley Zangure (19), a female adult from Zangure Village, Ngundu.
-Stella Dzingai (seven months), a female infant from Makono Village, Bikita.
The ZRP has urged motorists to exercise extreme caution on the roads, adhere to traffic regulations, and prioritize safety to prevent further loss of life.