By Nevison Mpofu
HARARE, Zimbabwe — Zimbabwe’s Minister of Local Government, Public Works and National Housing, Daniel Garwe, has declared the tragic bus accident involving Malawian nationals a national disaster on behalf of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, as grief and mourning continue to engulf both Zimbabwe and Malawi.
Speaking during a solemn mass memorial service held in Harare on Sunday, May 10, Minister Garwe joined Malawian dignitaries, bereaved families, and Zimbabwean mourners in paying tribute to the 15 Malawian nationals who lost their lives in the devastating crash.
The emotional ceremony, held at Doves Funeral Services, was marked by silence, tears, and heartfelt condolences as mourners honored the victims, who were travelling home to Malawi from Cape Town, South Africa, aboard a BRD Luxury Coaches bus.
The coach, which was transiting through Zimbabwe en route to Malawi, was involved in the fatal accident along the Harare–Nyamapanda Road at the 176-kilometre peg near Suswe on Tuesday, May 5, at approximately 1 p.m.
Initially, police confirmed that 14 passengers had died at the scene.
“A fatal bus accident occurred along the Harare–Nyamapanda Road at the Suswe 176-kilometre peg at around 1300 hours. The BRD Luxury Coach bus was travelling from Cape Town, South Africa, in transit to Malawi. Fourteen people died on the spot,” part of the police statement read.
However, according to Mtoko Hospital Superintendent Kudakwashe Madamombe, one additional passenger later succumbed to injuries while receiving treatment, bringing the death toll to 15.
“We received dozens of injured patients, among them one who later died, bringing the total number of deceased to 15. Those who were seriously injured were referred to Parirenyatwa Hospital in Harare. In total, we treated 35 injured patients,” Dr. Madamombe said.
Addressing mourners during the memorial service, Minister Garwe described the tragedy as a painful reminder of the deep historical and social ties between Zimbabwe and Malawi.
“Zimbabwe and Malawi are one people — brothers and sisters. This tragic accident has brought us together in grief as we pay our last respects to those we have lost. We remember them as part of our family,” said Garwe.
“We share strong bilateral ties with Malawi, and this tragedy has united us even more during this difficult time.”
The minister also commended emergency responders, healthcare workers, and rescue teams for their swift intervention and dedication in assisting survivors and supporting grieving families.
“I would like to commend the hospitals, medical staff, emergency rescue services, and everyone who assisted those who lost their lives and those injured in this tragedy,” he said.
“At the same time, this painful moment should push us as a region to collectively reflect on the urgent need to strengthen road safety measures across Southern Africa.”
The tragedy has reignited concerns over long-distance passenger transport safety in the region, particularly on major transit routes linking South Africa with neighboring countries such as Zimbabwe, Malawi, Zambia, and Mozambique.
As preparations continue for the repatriation and burial of the victims in Malawi, the accident has left communities across the region mourning while renewing calls for stronger enforcement of road safety regulations, improved driver monitoring systems, and enhanced emergency response mechanisms.
The memorial service underscored not only the pain of loss but also the enduring spirit of regional solidarity between Zimbabwe and Malawi in times of tragedy.
