Two deadly bus accidents in Zimbabwe within days
- Paul Aage Hegvik
- Feb 17
- 4 min read
Updated: Mar 15
Zimbabwe has been rocked by two devastating accidents within a span of just two days.
On February 11, 2025, a Mandaza bus collided with a school bus in Beatrice, killing three people. Two days later, a tragic crash near Beitbridge resulted in 24 deaths when an Urban Connect bus collided head-on with a haulage truck. These accidents have drawn attention to the nation's ongoing road safety challenges and the need for immediate reforms.
Beatrice collision
On February 11, 2025, a fatal collision took place at the 40-kilometre mark along the Masvingo-Harare Road in Beatrice, when a Mandaza bus collided head-on with a school bus from Glen View 2 High School. According to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), three people died instantly at the scene. The number of injured passengers is still being determined, and investigations are ongoing. Police responded to the scene, but the full extent of the casualties is yet to be confirmed.
Beitbridge crash
Just two days later, on February 13, 2025, another deadly accident occurred at the 262-kilometre peg along the Masvingo-Beitbridge Road, near the Lutumba Toll Gate. BNO News writes that In this tragic crash, an Urban Connect bus carrying 65 passengers collided head-on with an Auro Transport haulage truck, killing 24 people and injuring more than 30. The accident occurred when the bus attempted to overtake another vehicle, resulting in the fatal crash. The truck, which had four occupants, was traveling in the opposite direction.
Government and public response
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has expressed profound sorrow over the tragic bus accident near Beitbridge, declaring it a national disaster. He stated, «Our nation does not deserve this at all, let alone experiencing such a bloody incident at the beginning of the year.»
In his statement, President Mnangagwa emphasized the importance of road safety, urging all motorists to exercise extreme caution. He remarked, «I therefore appeal to all motorists to exercise extreme caution on our roads, for the sake of both their fellow road users and themselves.»
«Our nation does not deserve this at all, let alone experiencing such a bloody incident at the beginning of the year.»
The President also announced that the government would cover funeral and burial expenses for the victims, stating, «Government has therefore declared this incident a national disaster and will accord victims of this horrendous crash state-assisted burials.»
These statements reflect the government's commitment to supporting the affected families and addressing road safety concerns in the country.
Urban connect
Both bus companies involved in the accidents, Urban Connect and Mandaza, have expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss of life and have pledged to support the victims' families. Urban Connect, which operates long-distance routes, confirmed that the company would assist in the medical treatment and funeral arrangements for the victims of the Beitbridge crash. Similarly, Mandaza, known for regional services, has promised to provide assistance to the families affected by the Beatrice school bus collision.
Similar in December last year
Zimbabwe experienced a similar tragic accident in 2024. On December 11, 2024, a passenger bus collided with a truck on the same Masvingo-Beitbridge Road. The crash killed 19 people and injured over 40 others. The victims, primarily passengers on the bus, were traveling from Harare to Beitbridge when the driver reportedly lost control of the vehicle after attempting to overtake another car.
Much like the February 2025 incident, this accident was attributed to high-speed driving, road conditions, and potential driver fatigue
Raise alarm about road safety
These two fatal accidents in Zimbabwe within a short span have raised alarms about road safety. With the country's roads continuing to be a hotspot for traffic accidents, calls for improved vehicle inspections, better road conditions, and stronger enforcement of speed limits are growing louder.
As Zimbabwe grapples with these tragedies, it becomes increasingly clear that significant action is needed to ensure that such incidents do not continue to claim lives on the nation’s roads.
Traffic advice for tourists in Zimbabwe
Drive on the Left – Zimbabwe follows left-hand driving.
Road conditions – Main highways are decent, but rural roads can be rough.
Fuel availability – Fuel shortages occur, so fill up whenever possible.
Police roadblocks – Frequent but usually routine; carry all vehicle documents.
Wildlife & pedestrians – Be cautious, especially near national parks.
Public transport – Minibuses (kombis) can be unsafe; use registered taxis or private hires.
Toll gates – Main highways have tolls; carry small change in local currency.
Speed limits – Generally 60 km/h in cities and 120 km/h on highways, but check signs.
