President Cyril Ramaphosa Mourns 42 Lives Lost in Zimbabwe–South Africa Bus Accident

President Ramaphosa Mourns High Death Toll in Limpopo Bus Accident

President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed deep sorrow following a tragic bus crash on the N1 near Makhado, Limpopo, that claimed the lives of 42 travellers on Sunday, 12 October 2025.

The bus, travelling from Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) to Harare in Zimbabwe, was carrying Zimbabwean and Malawian nationals heading to their respective home countries.

Among the deceased were seven children, including a 10-month-old baby.

Also Read: 40 Zimbabwean and Malawian Nationals Killed as Bus Travelling from Gqeberha to Harare Crashes in Limpopo

Details of the Accident

According to reports, the out-of-control bus broke through the roadside barrier before plunging down a steep embankment into a nearby riverbed.

Several passengers were trapped beneath the vehicle. Many others sustained injuries and are currently receiving treatment at various provincial hospitals in Vhembe, including Louis Trichardt, Elim, and Siloam.

President Ramaphosa Offers Condolences

Speaking on behalf of the South African government and people, President Ramaphosa extended his heartfelt condolences to the governments and citizens of Zimbabwe and Malawi.

“This incident is a tragedy for South Africa and our sister states of Zimbabwe and Malawi alike,” the President said.

He also expressed sympathy for the families, friends, and colleagues of the deceased while wishing the injured a full and speedy recovery.

A Call for Road Safety

President Ramaphosa highlighted the tragic irony that the crash occurred during South Africa’s annual Transport Month, which focuses on road safety.

“Our roads are also economic networks that bring the people of our region together across our national borders.We must do everything we can as road users, as transport operators, drivers, and passengers to ensure that we stay safe and that we share our roads responsibly and with care for one another,” he said.