Mnangagwa declares Harare- Nyamapanda accident a State of Disaster

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has declared a State of Disaster following a fatal road accident that claimed 10 lives on Wednesday at the 185-kilometre peg near Suswe along the Harare–Nyamapanda Road.

All the victims were travelling in a Honda Fit that collided head-on with a Harare-bound haulage truck. None of the occupants survived.

The declaration was made in terms of the Civil Protection Act and announced through a statement released by Acting Minister of Local Government and Public Works, who is also the Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, Felix Mhona.

"On behalf of the Government of Zimbabwe, I extend my deepest and heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families," President Mnangagwa said.

"Losing so many lives in a single accident is a profound national tragedy, and our thoughts and prayers are with all those who are mourning."

The President said Government, through the Civil Protection Department and other relevant agencies, will render assistance to the affected families, including support towards funeral arrangements and other immediate needs.

Mnangagwa said the tragic incident underscored the urgent need to decisively deal with illegal transport operations and reckless driving, warning that the country could not continue to lose innocent lives due to negligence and disregard for traffic laws.

"The Government will enforce road regulations firmly to protect the travelling public," he said. "I urge all road users — drivers, passengers and pedestrians — to exercise maximum caution, respect traffic rules and prioritise safety at all times."

The President called on all stakeholders to work together to prevent similar tragedies and ensure that Zimbabwe's roads are safe for everyone.