President Mnangagwa has declared a state of disaster following a tragic road crash that claimed ten lives along Harare-Nyamapanda road on December 17.
In a statement acting minister of local government and public works, Felix Mhona, confirmed that President declared the accident a disaster in terms of section 27 (1) of the Civil Protection Act.
The accident occurred at the 185 km peg near Suswe along the Harare-Nyamapanda road.
Minister Mhona said, this declaration enables government to mobilise and coordinate all necessary support for the affected families during this painful period.
The crash occurred when a Honda Fit carrying ten occupants, travelling from Mutoko to Kotwa, was involved in a head-on collision with a haulage truck enroute to Harare.
Preliminary reports indicate that the Honda Fit encroached into the oncoming lane, resulting in the fatal collision. all ten occupants of the Honda Fit died on the spot, while the four occupants of the haulage truck survived.
“On behalf of the Government of Zimbabwe, I extend my deepest and heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families.
“Losing so many lives in a single incident is a profound national tragedy, and our thoughts and prayers are with all those who are mourning.
“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.
“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.
“I urge all road users drivers, passengers, and pedestrians to exercise maximum caution, respect traffic rules, and prioritise safety at all times.
“Together, we must work to prevent such tragedies and ensure that our roads are safe for everyone.
“May the souls of the departed rest in eternal peace.”
