Londile Moyo
Sikhumbuzo Moyo, [email protected]
MATABELELAND South Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Albert Nguluvhe, says the province has endured a tragic two-month period marked by a series of fatal road traffic accidents that have claimed multiple lives.
Speaking during a mass funeral service on Sunday for victims of the recent Toyota Quantum crash near Esigodini, Minister Nguluvhe said the loss of life has left communities devastated.
“On behalf of Matabeleland South, our hearts are bleeding. It has been a very bad two months where we also lost an entire family at Shangani and seven people at Mawabeni. It is touching to see a mother and her daughter among the deceased,” he said.
He raised concern over reports that explosives may have been in the vehicle involved in the latest crash, calling for thorough investigations.
“Who is selling these explosives? As a Government we must find answers to these questions. We are an independent country, we are not at war — why are these explosives being sold publicly?” he said, adding that authorities must establish their source and intended destination.
Zanu-PF Matabeleland South chairperson, Mangaliso Ndlovu, described the tragedy as deeply unsettling, noting that many of the victims were young people.
“This tragedy makes one tremble. The majority of the victims are young people — future leaders,” he said, while also thanking President Mnangagwa for declaring the incident a state of disaster.
Umzingwane legislator and Deputy Minister of Defence, Brigadier General (retired) Levy Mayihlome, commended first responders for their swift reaction.
“They tried to offer first aid, but I guess it was too late,” he said.
Brigadier General (retired) Mayihlome added that the accident came shortly after another fatal incident in his constituency at Mawabeni, where seven people died while assisting a motorist involved in a minor crash.
He said the district would organise a prayer day at the accident site, which is located close to the scene of another deadly crash in 2023 that claimed 22 lives.
Speaking on behalf of the bereaved families, Mr Freddy Mpofu expressed gratitude for the support received from Government.
“When you have someone assisting you in times of need, you then know that you have a friend indeed. We are so grateful to the Government as led by President Mnangagwa for extending this gesture to us,” he said.
He appealed for counselling services to be extended to affected families as they come to terms with the loss of their loved ones.
Online Reporter