Zim GBC News | South African Correspondent
MAKHADO, South Africa – In a tragedy that has sent shockwaves across the region, a bus carrying Zimbabwean and Malawian nationals crashed on Sunday, resulting in the deaths of over 40 people, including a 10-month-old baby and several other children.
The horrific accident occurred around 2 PM on the N1 freeway near Ingwe Lodge, outside Makhado in South Africa’s Limpopo province. According to officials, the bus was travelling from Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) and was destined for Harare, before continuing on to Malawi—a gruelling journey of over 2,100 kilometres.
Limpopo Transport and Community Safety MEC, Violet Mathye, confirmed the devastating toll.
“Let me pass my condolences to the two countries that have lost loved ones — Zimbabwe and Malawi,” MEC Mathye stated in a televised interview.
“We have reported 38 injuries; these are the people who are currently in hospital. They were originally 39, but a 10-month-old baby passed away after being referred to hospital.”
Authorities have since released a list naming 43 Zimbabwean nationals who perished in the crash. The passenger bus reportedly lost control, veered off the road, rolled down an embankment, and landed on its roof.
Preliminary reports from the scene indicate no other vehicles were involved.
“There was no other vehicle involved. I am sure the bus lost control. I do not know what caused it — it could be driver fatigue or a mechanical fault,” MEC Mathye explained, adding that a final report would provide definitive answers.
The N1 freeway was closed for several hours as emergency services and law enforcement worked at the crash site. Families of those travelling the route between South Africa and Zimbabwe are being urged to check on their relatives.
This incident marks one of the deadliest road accidents in the region in recent years, highlighting the perils of long-distance road travel.
Follow Zim GBC News on Social Media:
· X (Twitter): @ZimGbc
·Instagram: @ZimGBCNews
·TikTok: @ZimGBCNews_01
·Facebook: Zim GBC News
·YouTube: Zim GBC News
Get real-time alerts on WhatsApp:
+263 773 820 323
For in-depth coverage, visit our website: www.zimgbcnews.co.zw
Zim GBC News | Global News From An African Perspective©2025