It has been revealed that a family of three died in the Limpopo cross-border bus crash that happened last week. Among the countless stories of loss emerging from the devastation, one has pierced the heart of a community: the complete annihilation of a young family. Liveon Maidza, who had been working in South Africa, was embarking on a joyful journey back to his homeland for a visit, accompanied by his wife and their young child.
In a cruel twist of fate, none of them survived the incident. The entire family is now expected to be laid to rest together in their rural home of Mataga, Mberengwa.
The emotional toll was palpable this week as grief-stricken relatives gathered at the Siloam Hospital Mortuary to identify their loved ones. The process, which lasted an entire day, was a harrowing ordeal for all involved. South African authorities had worked tirelessly to prepare the remains for viewing. Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba moved to assure families that every possible precaution was being taken. She stated,
“The identification was done through photography, physical verification, fingerprint matching, and DNA testing for the seven children.”
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A Painful Homecoming Arranged
The complex and sorrowful task of repatriating the deceased is now underway. The bus, operated by DNC Coaches, was carrying citizens from both Zimbabwe and Malawi when the driver reportedly lost control. The final death toll includes thirty-six Zimbabwean nationals and seven Malawians. Zimbabwe’s Charge d’Affaires in South Africa, Shepard Gwenzi, provided an update on the solemn proceedings. He confirmed,
“On 20 October, the physical identification of the deceased was successfully conducted at Siloam Hospital Mortuary with all bodies positively identified by next of kin. It is expected that the bodies will be handed over to Doves Funeral Services on 21 October for embalming in preparation for repatriation to Zimbabwe for burial.”
State Assistance for the Bereaved
In response to the scale of the disaster, the highest levels of government have become involved. President Emmerson Mnangagwa has officially declared the accident a State of Disaster, paving the way for official support for the bereaved families. The government is now coordinating efforts to bring the victims home and provide them with a dignified burial. Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe elaborated on the state’s role, saying,
“In this regard, the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works, in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade and other Government entities, is calling upon relatives of the deceased to come forward and assist in the identification process.”
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As the repatriation of the thirty-six bodies is finalised this week, a nation prepares to welcome home its children, not with the joy of reunion, but with the profound sorrow of a final farewell.
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The post Revealed: Family Of Three Died In The Limpopo Bus Crash Last Week appeared first on iHarare News.
