The roads are becoming increasingly dangerous, with recent data painting a concerning picture of rising traffic fatalities and a complex web of contributing factors including speeding, distraction and alcohol-related fatalities.

On July 22nd, the nation of Zimbabwe was shaken to its core by the devastating road accident on Seke Road, near Chitungwiza. The accident involved a haulage truck and a commuter omnibus which claimed the lives of 17 people, including two children and this occurred at Hunyani Bridge, near Water Works.

The scene was depicted as horrific, with the kombi entirely crushed and trapped under the enormous truck. Rescue teams labored diligently to extract bodies from the debris, with the somber task lasting for several hours.

Initial reports and eyewitness accounts offered varying perspectives pertaining the cause of the accident with some suggest the truck may have veered into oncoming traffic while attempting to avoid another vehicle, while others allege a mechanical failure, possibly a broken prop shaft or a burst tire, moments before the impact.

As reported by H-Metro, Vanessa Nyandoro (24), one of the individuals in the kombi, managed to survive the tragic accident and said: “I do not know how I escaped, I thank God for this life.”

The incident on Seke Road serves as a poignant reminder of life’s vulnerability and the tragic consequences of traffic accidents. The residents of Chitungwiza, along with the entire nation, grieve for those who have lost their lives, and families left behind face an unimaginable grief.

The Seke Road crash represents the hazards present on our roads, a plea for enhanced road safety regulations, and a demonstration of the strength of the human spirit when confronted with profound hardship.

The remembrance of the seventeen individuals who perished will always be ingrained in the minds of those affected by the incident, serving as a continual reminder of life’s value and the significance of understanding and kindness.

The individuals who survived will require continuous assistance to recover from their physical and psychological injuries.

According to Business and Human Rights Resource Centre, in 2023, Zimbabwe recorded 10,617 road traffic crashes, resulting in 5,081 fatalities and 31,874 injuries. This represented a 21% decrease in fatalities compared to 2022.