“We cannot continue to lose innocent lives due to negligence” – President Mnangagwa declares State of Disaster after 10 people die in Nyamapanda road accident, assures tougher traffic enforcement

 

….Accident sparks online debate on government to ban mushikashika

PRESIDENT Emmerson Mnangagwa has declared a State of Disaster following a tragic road traffic accident that claimed the lives of ten people at the 185km peg near Suswe along Harare Nyamapanda Road.

The crash occurred when a Honda Fit carrying ten passengers which travelling from Mutoko to Kotwa was involved in a head-on collision with a haulage truck en route to Harare.

Preliminary reports indicate that the Honda Fit encroached into the oncoming lane, leading to the fatal accident.

All ten occupants of the Honda Fit died on the spot, while the four people in the haulage truck survived.

In a statement Friday, Acting Local Government Minister Felix Mhona extended condolences to the bereaved families on behalf of officials and assured support towards funeral expenses.

“His Excellency, the President, Cde E.D. Mnangagwa, has declared a State of Disaster in terms of Section 27(1) of the Civil Protection Act [Chapter 10:06] following the tragic road traffic crash that claimed ten (10) lives at the 185 km peg near Suswe along the Harare-Nyamapanda Road.

“This declaration enables the government to mobilise and coordinate all necessary support for the affected families during this painful period.

“Government, through the Civil Protection Department and relevant agencies, will provide the necessary assistance to the affected families, including support towards funeral arrangements and other immediate needs,” the statement reads.

The government also used the tragedy to renew calls for a crackdown on illegal transport operators and reckless driving.

“This heartbreaking incident also highlights the urgent need to decisively address illegal transport operations (Mushika-shika) and reckless driving on our roads.

“We cannot continue to lose innocent lives due to negligence and disregard for traffic laws.

“The government will enforce road safety regulations firmly to protect the travelling public,” the statement added.

*Mudzi Road Tragedy: 10 Lives Lost in Crash Sparks Urgent Call to Ban Pirate Taxis!*

A tragic car accident in the Muzira community of Mudzi West left 10 people dead and sparked renewed calls for action against illegal taxi services, known locally as mushika-shika.

The victims were traveling in a Honda Fit when their vehicle collided head-on with a haulage truck on Nyamapanda road.

Local residents expressed deep concern over the dangers posed by overcrowded and reckless driving by unlicensed transport operators.

An eyewitness, Ms. Florence Mafigo, recounted the frightening moment.

“It all happened so quickly. I saw the truck coming and then heard the screeching brakes. The Honda Fit was pulled under the truck for about 20 meters, and it was just a disaster,” she said.

Community members are urging authorities to take strong action. Mr. Walter Mutize pointed out the dangers of overcrowding, questioning how a car meant for five passengers could carry ten.

“We need to enforce the rules to keep everyone safe,” he said.

Mrs. Monica Mupandaguta added, “Banning these pirate taxis could save lives. We lose people daily because of reckless driving.”

Mudzi West legislator Honourable Knowledge Kaitano highlighted the need for better public transport options to reduce reliance on illegal taxis.

“Last week in Parliament, I mentioned the importance of improving our transport system. These tragic losses make it clear we need to tighten our regulations,” he noted.

The accident occurred Wednesday morning, with families now collecting the deceased from Kotwa Hospital for funeral preparations.

While the government has initiated measures to enhance road safety, many believe more needs to be done, especially during busy holiday periods.