The Zimbabwean government has declared a state of disaster after a commuter minibus caught fire on the Bulawayo-Beitbridge Highway on Thursday, resulting in the deaths of all 22 people on board. President Emmerson Mnangagwa made the declaration, which enables state resources to be used for response and assistance, following the incident near West Nicholson in Matabeleland South province.
According to a statement from the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), the Toyota Quantum minibus was traveling from Beitbridge toward Masvingo when the fire occurred. The passengers were reportedly returning from a funeral.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms a fatal road traffic accident which occurred at the 27-kilometre peg along the Bulawayo-Beitbridge Road,” national police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said in a statement. He confirmed that 21 people died at the scene, while another individual died upon admission to a nearby hospital.
Initial police findings suggest a suspected gas cylinder, which was being transported on the vehicle, may have contributed to the fire’s intensity. Authorities reported that the fire was so severe it burned the victims beyond recognition, complicating identification efforts. Forensic specialists have been dispatched to assist in identifying the deceased.
Following the incident, Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe visited the site. The government’s declaration of a state of disaster typically involves providing state-assisted funerals and financial support to the bereaved families.
In a condolence message, President Mnangagwa expressed his sympathies to the families of the victims. The government has stated it will cover funeral and burial expenses for all who died in the incident.
Road accidents are a significant concern in Zimbabwe, with official bodies often citing factors such as the condition of roads and vehicles, as well as human error. The Bulawayo-Beitbridge Highway is a major transport corridor connecting Zimbabwe to South Africa, its largest trading partner.
Investigations into the precise cause of the fire are ongoing, according to police officials.
