Mnangagwa Declares State-Assisted Funerals for Victims of Bulawayo Road Horror Crash
By Loyd Matare
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has declared state-assisted funerals for the eight victims of the tragic accident that occurred at the Dzivarasekwa turn-off along Bulawayo Road, which left eight dead and 11 others injured.
In a statement, President Mnangagwa expressed deep sorrow over the accident, calling it a national tragedy that underscores the urgent need for stricter road safety measures to curb the rising number of fatal crashes.
“I have learned with deep shock and sadness of the fatal accident that claimed eight precious lives and left many others battling for survival,” Mnangagwa said.
“The continued loss of life on our roads, often due to reckless driving and unroadworthy vehicles, is unacceptable.
“I urge all motorists and public transport operators to exercise extreme caution to prevent such heartbreaking incidents.”
In a compassionate move, President Mnangagwa announced that the government will provide state-assisted funerals to the families of the deceased, ensuring they receive dignified burials without financial burden.
“To ease the burden on grieving families, the government will cover funeral expenses for all those who lost their lives in this tragedy. We stand with the bereaved in this difficult time,” the President declared.
Mnangagwa also emphasized that Zimbabwe’s traffic laws must be strictly enforced, urging authorities to crack down on reckless drivers and unsafe public transport practices.
“As a country, we must commit to enhancing road safety, enforcing strict penalties for traffic violations, and ensuring that our roads are safe for all users,” he said.
The President further reminded citizens that Zimbabwe is a signatory to the SADC Protocol on Transport, which mandates harmonized road safety measures across member states.
He called on law enforcement agencies to intensify awareness campaigns on new traffic regulations, including the first-in, first-out rule at intersections, to reduce collisions.
As families mourn their loved ones, Mnangagwa extended his prayers and best wishes to those who survived the crash, urging medical teams to provide them with the best care possible.
“I send my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and wish a speedy recovery to all those injured. May the souls of the departed rest in eternal peace,” Mnangagwa concluded.
With government intervention now easing funeral expenses, the tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of the need for collective responsibility in ensuring road safety across Zimbabwe.
