President mourns Masvingo-Zvishavane road accident victims

by | Jul 8, 2021 | Local News | 0 comments

Mako Jerera

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has sent messages of condolence to families of the 20 accident victims who died on Monday July 5, 2021 in a horrific traffic accident between Masvingo and Zvishavane.

The President said he received the sad news of the accident with great shock, and that it is worrying that most of such accidents are due to human error.

“Our nation cannot continue to lose precious lives needlessly through road accidents, the majority of which are attributed to human error,” he said in a statement.

He added, “As we grapple with road infrastructure rehabilitation to make them safer, let us exercise extreme caution on our roads. Life is priceless and it is everyone’s responsibility to safeguard it.”

The President has urged motorists to avoid speeding and overloading in order to reduce accidents.

“In light of the surging COVID-19 infections and deaths in the current third wave which we seek to contain through the enhanced level 4 lockdown measures, I appeal to the public to avoid unnecessary travel,” the President said.

Earlier reports indicated that eighteen people died on the spot, while two died on their way to Zvishavane Hospital.

Police spokesperson Paul Nyathi said the minibus encroached onto the path of the smaller vehicle after a tyre burst, resulting in the accident.

President Mnangagwa further noted that it is also sad that some people are continuing with inter-city travelling despite it being banned. He warned that the law will take its course.