Mnangagwa declares Suswe crash a state of disaster

The Government has declared the fatal Suswe road traffic accident along the Harare–Nyamapanda Highway a state of disaster following Tuesday's crash that claimed 17 lives and left dozens injured in Mudzi District.

The declaration was announced by Daniel Garwe on behalf of Emmerson Mnangagwa, as authorities intensified relief efforts for victims and bereaved families affected by one of Zimbabwe's deadliest recent road accidents.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the Malawi-bound DNC luxury coach was carrying 62 passengers, including seven children and three crew members, when it was involved in the crash at Suswe along the busy highway.

Seventeen people died at the scene while 33 others sustained injuries. Six of the injured passengers are reported to be in critical condition at various medical facilities.

Minister Garwe said declaring the tragedy a state of disaster would allow Government and its partners to mobilise emergency assistance and coordinate support for survivors and affected families.

He said authorities were committed to ensuring that victims receive dignified burials while injured passengers continue receiving medical care and psychosocial support.

"The tragic loss of life in this accident is deeply painful and calls for collective reflection on the importance of road safety and strict adherence to traffic regulations," said Minister Garwe.

Authorities are continuing investigations into the circumstances surrounding the accident amid growing concern over the increasing number of road traffic crashes on Zimbabwe's major highways.

The Suswe tragedy has renewed calls for improved road safety enforcement, stricter compliance with transport regulations and greater caution by public transport operators and motorists.