Grief engulfed Bulawayo on Sunday as families buried 12 accident victims. Officials and relatives gathered to honour lives lost in the Esigodini crash. The funeral followed Thursday’s accident, now declared a national disaster. President Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa activated Government support for affected families.

Rows of coffins filled the chapel, creating a deeply sombre atmosphere. Families struggled to accept the sudden and painful loss of loved ones.

“This is painful. I do not even have words to explain it. Imagine I saw my son just days ago and the next thing, he is just dust which I have to bury, how could this be?” one relative said.

Another grieving mother added: “As a mother, you do not wish to see your child go this way. I will never understand this.”

Government Responds to Tragedy

Meanwhile, Government officials expressed deep concern over the national loss. They emphasised unity and reflection during this difficult period.

“We are going through a lot right now as a nation. This accident has left us all shocked. That is why we are here at this service to pay our respects. Our focus is on this tragedy, which has also seen the President declaring it a state of disaster and Government assisting in the best way it can,” said Deputy Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Honourable Omphile Marupi.

Additionally, leaders highlighted the importance of collective responsibility in improving road safety.

Calls for Road Safety Reform

At the same time, officials raised concerns about the crash circumstances. They questioned the alleged transport of explosives in a passenger vehicle.

“Once again, this calls for introspection. How can someone carry people and explosives in the same vehicle? This is not fair at all. Imagine what these families are going through right now,” said Matabeleland South Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Albert Nguluvhe.

Authorities continue investigating the exact cause of the accident. Furthermore, calls for stricter transport regulations continue to grow. Stakeholders now urge urgent action to prevent similar tragedies.

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