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By Judith Matanire
The 2025 Heroes and Defence Forces holidays have been overshadowed by a sharp rise in fatal road accidents, with 24 people killed and 96 injured in 196 crashes recorded between 11 and 13 August.
Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the figures mark a worrying increase from last year’s holiday period, which saw 16 deaths and 77 injuries from 149 accidents. Fatal crashes rose from eight to 13.
“These statistics are deeply concerning. Reckless driving, speeding, overtaking errors and mechanical faults are costing lives,” said Nyathi.
Among the most devastating incidents was an August 11 crash along the Mutare–Masvingo Road in which six Zion Christian Church congregants died and 16 others were injured after a hired Toyota Quantum veered off the road and overturned. The group was travelling from Gokwe to Chimanimani for a church event.
On August 12, four people were killed and 17 injured when a rear tyre of an overloaded Toyota Hiace kombi burst on the Bindura–Shamva Road, sending the vehicle off the road.
Other tragedies included two deaths on the Masvingo–Mbalabala Road after a Toyota Hilux overturned, and the death of a 16-year-old girl in Checheche who was run over by a lorry carrying river sand after disembarking while it was still moving.
Pedestrian casualties were also reported, including a fatal hit-and-run in Hatfield and an injury in High Glen.
Nyathi urged motorists to service their vehicles, avoid dangerous driving, and for pedestrians to wear reflective clothing at night.
“The Police reiterates that motorists should prioritise vehicle maintenance and strictly follow road rules to curb the continuous loss of lives,” he said.
