Zimbabwe Honours Malawian Bus Crash Victims as Bodies Are Repatriated
A solemn memorial service and send-off ceremony was held in Harare yesterday for 15 Malawian nationals who lost their lives in a tragic bus accident along the Harare-Nyamapanda Highway last week.
The victims were among 17 people killed when a Malawi-bound BRD Luxury Coaches bus travelling from South Africa crashed near Suswe in Mashonaland East Province on May 5. The bodies were repatriated to Malawi in the early hours of today following the ceremony at Doves Funeral Parlour.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa declared the accident a national disaster after the crash claimed lives and left dozens injured.
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Memorial Service Held in Harare
Government officials, diplomats, church leaders and members of the Malawian community gathered for the memorial service, which was officiated by Minister of Local Government and Public Works Daniel Garwe and Malawi’s Ambassador to Zimbabwe Peter Andrew Lapken Namathanga.
According to The Herald, fourteen passengers died at the scene of the accident, while three others succumbed to injuries after being admitted to hospital. Authorities said 33 passengers were injured and remain hospitalised.
The two Zimbabwean victims, including the bus driver, have already been collected by their families for burial.
Zimbabwe, Malawi Share Grief
Speaking during the ceremony, Minister Garwe conveyed condolences from the Zimbabwean Government and President Mnangagwa to the people of Malawi and the bereaved families.
He said the tragedy had deeply affected both countries because of the strong historical and bilateral ties shared between Zimbabwe and Malawi. Garwe described the two nations as “brothers and sisters” who continue to stand together during difficult times.
The minister also praised emergency services, hospitals and rescue teams for their response following the crash.
Malawi Commends Zimbabwe’s Support
Ambassador Namathanga thanked the Zimbabwean Government, emergency personnel and local communities for the assistance provided after the accident.
He said the rescue efforts and support extended to survivors and families demonstrated compassion and African solidarity during a difficult period.
The ambassador also acknowledged Malawian embassy officials for helping coordinate support services and the repatriation process for the deceased.
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