President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa has declared a State of Disaster following a devastating road accident near Esigodini along the Bulawayo–Beitbridge Road that claimed 16 lives.
The declaration, issued in terms of the Civil Protection Act, is intended to allow authorities to mobilise emergency assistance, coordinate response measures and support families affected by the tragedy.
Minister of Local Government and Public Works Daniel Garwe said the nation had been left reeling by the scale of the disaster, describing the accident scene as deeply distressing.
Preliminary investigations indicate that a Toyota Quantum belonging to Best Care Funeral Services of South Africa was travelling from Bulawayo towards Gwanda when it exploded under circumstances that remain unclear. The vehicle was reportedly carrying passengers together with explosive material at the time of the incident.
The explosion killed all occupants on board, leaving bodies severely burnt and dismembered, making immediate identification impossible.
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Garwe said authorities will now rely on DNA testing to positively identify some of the victims due to the extent of the destruction.
“This tragic incident has shocked the nation and highlights serious safety concerns on our roads,” Garwe said.
He urged motorists and transport operators to strictly adhere to road safety regulations and exercise heightened caution to prevent similar disasters.
Government agencies are working jointly to assist bereaved families, including facilitating identification processes and providing support for funeral arrangements.
Garwe also visited the accident scene, where he witnessed the scale of devastation firsthand, describing the loss of life as a tragedy that has shaken surrounding communities and road users alike.
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