Heroism We Should Never Forget—Sirizani Butau’s Brave Rescue of 8 People from a Burning Bus
Years back, truck driver Sirizani Butau risked his life to rescue eight people from a burning bus after a crash on the Harare-Mutare highway.
As flames engulfed the wreckage, trapping passengers inside, Butau rushed in without hesitation, pulling them to safety despite suffering severe burns.
His bravery continues to inspire Zimbabwe today.
The tragedy unfolded on December 24, 2021, when a Beta bus collided with a fuel tanker on the Harare-Mutare highway, bursting into flames on impact.
While some passengers managed to escape, others were trapped inside, unable to free themselves from the burning wreckage.
Without hesitation, Sirizani Butau rushed into the fire, pulling out eight passengers who were unable to escape on their own.
Despite suffering severe burns to his hands and legs, he continued rescuing passengers, refusing to leave anyone behind.
Investigations later confirmed that the accident occurred when the Beta bus driver swerved to avoid a drunk pedestrian, leading to the collision with the tanker.
Tragically, four people lost their lives, including the tanker driver and his passenger.
Sirizani Butau’s heroic actions made him a national hero, earning him the Gold Cross of Zimbabwe from President Emmerson Mnangagwa during the Heroes Day commemorations in August 2024.
His story is a lasting testament to the courage and selflessness that define true heroism.
