SA Bus Accidents: 14 Zimbabwean Victims Identified

Zimbabwe’s embassy in South Africa has released the names of 14 out of the 15 Zimbabweans who tragically lost their lives in two separate bus accidents involving Mzansi Express and Tamuka cross-border buses. The identification of the remaining victim is pending DNA analysis.

Ambassador David Hamadziripi has confirmed that the government will cover the costs of repatriating the remains and the subsequent burials. “The Embassy and the Consulate in Johannesburg wish to update members of the public that the victims of the accident, except one, have been positively identified and their next of kin have been advised accordingly,” said Hamadziripi.

The bodies are expected to be repatriated to Zimbabwe on Thursday, September 5th and Friday, September 6th, with burials scheduled for the weekend.

The embassy and consulate continue to provide support to the injured victims who are still receiving treatment in various hospitals.

Victims of the Mzansi Express Accident (August 28th):

• Margaret Ngwenya (52) from Plumtree
• Sithusiwe Moyo (38) from Bulawayo
• Sicingeni Nyoni (45) from Lupane
• Forgive Ndlovu (31) from Bulawayo
• Tshido Dube (38) from Plumtree
• Lorenzo Palu (35) from Bulawayo
• Andrew Khumalo (51) from Kezi
• Boitshepo Makwaiba (52) from Bulawayo
• Thulani Maphosa (age not given) from Gwanda
• Lwandile Liam Palu (3) from Bulawayo

Victims of the Tamuka Coaches Bus Accident (September 1st):

• Tatenda Mandeya (43) from Harare
• Michael Zengeni (41) from Gweru
• Noah Kelvin Mupondiwa (34) from Headlands
• Tichaona Chigakanje (49) from Mt Darwin
• One victim awaiting DNA identification

The Mzansi bus accident occurred when the driver failed to navigate a traffic circle, causing the bus to overturn. The Tamuka accident is suspected to have been caused by driver fatigue. These tragic incidents highlight the ongoing risks associated with cross-border travel and the need for improved road safety measures.