President Mnangagwa Offers State Funeral for 8 Victims of Bus Crash in Masvingo

President Mnangagwa has expressed his sorrow over the deaths of eight individuals in a bus accident near Mutendi Complex on the Masvingo-Mutare highway on Saturday.

The crash, which occurred around 2 a.m., involved a Dragon bus that collided with a timber-laden lorry, killing the driver and seven passengers instantly. Four other passengers were injured and are currently receiving treatment at Masvingo General Hospital.

The bus was traveling from Beitbridge to Mutare with 20 passengers when the accident happened. Preliminary reports suggest the driver tried to overtake another vehicle but veered into the lorry’s lane, leading to the collision.

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In response, the President has assigned Minister of State for Masvingo Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Ezra Chadzamira, to offer condolences to the victims’ families and announce government support for their funerals, the Herald reports.

Speaking at Doves Funeral Parlour, where families were gathering to claim the bodies, Minister Chadzamira conveyed the President’s sadness over the ongoing road accidents.

“I have been sent by the President to extend his deep condolences following the loss of your loved ones in yet another bus crash that came after another bloody accident. The President is deeply saddened by the continued loss of life on our roads and that is why all the deceased have been granted State assistance. The State provided coffins, transport to ferry the bodies for burial and other assistance so that we assuage your pain during this difficult time,’’ said Minister Chadzamira.

“I also want to say to you all, the grieving families, that death is a reality of life that is difficult to bear, that is why the whole nation, from the President, is coming together to console you after this tragic accident that cost lives, some of whom were breadwinners for their families.’’

Chadzamira also urged drivers to prioritize safety, reminding them of their responsibility to protect lives while on the road. He noted that the continuous loss of life due to accidents is disheartening.

Family members, like Mrs. Memory Manyaya, expressed gratitude for the government’s support during this tragic time.

“I want to thank the President from the bottom of my heart for making our burden bearable by the assistance that has been granted to families of all those who lost their loved ones. We are mourning the loss our loved ones, but the support from the President and his words of comfort during this difficult time make us feel that we are not alone,’’ she said.

The community remains hopeful that such tragedies can be prevented in the future through greater awareness and adherence to road safety rules.