Harare – The tragic accident near Sunway City, which claimed the lives of four people yesterday, has taken another devastating turn, with the death toll rising to five. Joyce Mundogwinya (52) of Ushewokunze, Harare, succumbed to her injuries at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals, adding to the growing list of victims.
The accident, which occurred on Wednesday afternoon at the 20-kilometre peg along the Harare-Mutare Road, involved a commuter omnibus travelling towards Marondera. Eyewitness accounts suggest that a tyre burst caused the driver to lose control, sending the vehicle careening off the road. The bus rolled over three times before coming to a standstill on its roof, leaving a trail of destruction and devastation.
The initial victims who died on the spot were identified as Keylia Munene (11 months old), Loice Rushizha of Dzivarasekwa (69), Steven Ngozha of Dzivarasekwa (74) and Violet Mesa of Nyamanhindi Village, Rusape. The accident has left families shattered and communities mourning the loss of loved ones.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police reiterates that motorists should observe stipulated speed limits and abide by all road rules and regulations to curb road traffic accidents,” said National Police Spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, confirming the latest fatality.
The accident has also brought into sharp focus the growing concern over the alarming rise in road accidents across Zimbabwe. This latest tragedy comes amidst a wave of fatal accidents that have claimed countless lives in recent months.
In a recent Senate session, Manicaland Senator Jane Chitsamba expressed deep concern over the surge in road carnage, questioning the Transport and Infrastructure Development Ministry about its response to this pressing issue.
“It is heartbreaking to see so many lives lost on our roads,” Senator Chitsamba said. “We need to understand what is driving this increase in accidents and take decisive action to prevent further tragedies.”
Responding to the growing concern, Transport and Infrastructure Development Minister Felix Mhona acknowledged the gravity of the situation and outlined the government’s plan to address the issue.
“It is quite saddening that over 26 precious lives were lost in June alone, with over 56 people injured,” Minister Mhona said. “We are taking serious measures in terms of mitigatory actions as a Ministry, but this calls for a holistic approach.”
He went on to highlight the government’s commitment to holding accountable those who fail to uphold road safety standards.
“Where we have witnessed recklessness, where we did not preserve the sanctity of life on our roads, where others are driving under the influence of alcohol, and through the enforcement agents, we have said if a vehicle passes through a manned checkpoint and is involved in an accident, the officials are accountable,” Minister Mhona stated.
The government’s commitment to addressing this crisis is crucial, but it is also essential to address the underlying factors contributing to the increase in road accidents. These include inadequate road infrastructure, poor vehicle maintenance, driver fatigue, and a lack of awareness of road safety regulations.
