Online Reporter
Thupeyo Muleya
Beitbridge Bureau
THE bodies of 11 Zimbabweans who died in a road accident in Free State Province, South Africa, last week are expected to arrive in the country on Saturday morning via Beitbridge Border Post.
The 11 were part of passengers that were travelling from Cape Town to Zimbabwe in a Munhenzva Bus when tragedy struck at around 5pm on July 31.
President Mnangagwa has already declared a State of Disaster following the horrific bus crash, invoking emergency response in mobilising resources for repatriating the deceased and supporting survivors.
The declaration follows the July 31 crash of a Munhenzva Transport Services coach travelling from Cape Town to Harare, which went off the road near Trompsburg in South Africa’s Free State province.
At least 66 people survived the crash with varying injuries and were taken to medical facilities for treatment.
Consul General to South Africa, based in Johannesburg, Mr Eria Phiri confirmed that all logistics for the repatriation have been finalised.
“All logistics are now in order, and we are ready to depart at 5 pm (Friday). The remains will arrive in Zimbabwe via Beitbridge on Saturday morning,” Mr Phiri said.
“We have identified one male adult, five female adults, three female minors and two male minors among the deceased.
“The Government of Zimbabwe is facilitating the repatriations. We are grateful for the support from our host government.”
A total of 13 people are still in hospital — five are at Pelonomi Tertiary Hospital and eight at Universitas Academic Hospital.
Meanwhile, the Local Civil Protection Committee has announced arrangements for a send-off memorial service for the 11 nationals.
The service will be held at Doves Funeral Services in Beitbridge, where the Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Daniel Garwe, will attend as Chief Mourner.
The Chief Director of Civil Protection and other Government officials will join him. The names of the victims will be released at a later stage.
Authorities have urged motorists to exercise caution on regional routes, especially during cross-border travel, as many Zimbabweans return home.
