SA’s Ramaphosa offers condolences after deadly Limpopo bus accident

(Photo by: Michael Makungo/SABC)

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed deep condolences to the governments and people of Zimbabwe and Malawi following a deadly bus accident near Makhado (formerly Louis Trichardt) in Limpopo on Sunday afternoon that claimed 42 lives.

Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya described the crash as a shared tragedy for South Africa and its neighbouring countries, saying the government stands ready to assist where possible.

“This is not just a tragedy for the affected families but for all of us in the region.”

The bus, operated by DNC Coaches, was travelling from Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape to Zimbabwe and Malawi when it overturned along the N1 highway.

DNC Coaches manager Dennis Jakopo, speaking from Gqeberha, said the loss had devastated the company. “It is so sad for such an event, and it’s a national disaster. We were not expecting it, you know. There were children and magogos (old women),” he told Newzroom Afrika.

In a statement, Ramaphosa said his thoughts and those of the country are with the families, friends, and colleagues of the deceased, while he wished the dozens of injured a full and speedy recovery.

He also noted with sadness that the crash occurred during Transport Month — a period when the government highlights the importance of road safety and responsible driving.

Meanwhile, the SABC reports that the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has dispatched a team of crash investigators to Limpopo to determine the cause of the accident. Authorities have urged motorists to take extra care on long-distance routes, particularly those connecting South Africa with its neighbours.