The ZRP has released the full names of 21 people who tragically lost their lives in a series of fatal road traffic accidents that occurred across Mutare, Juru, and Masvingo over the three-day period from 28 to 30 August 2025. The announcement, which comes amid growing concerns over road safety in the country, underscores the urgent need for motorists to exercise greater caution while on Zimbabwean roads.
In a statement, ZRP spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed that the victims were formally identified by their next of kin following investigations into the three separate crashes. Commissioner Nyathi expressed profound condolences to the families and communities affected, emphasizing the human toll of road accidents and the ongoing need for vigilance by drivers.
The first of the fatal crashes occurred on 28 August at the 46-kilometre peg along the Mutare–Masvingo Road, near Mutare. Seven people lost their lives in this accident, including Godfrey Chikosi (45) and Vincent Museza (32), both from Rowa East, Zimunya, Mutare. Other victims included Patience Musabayaba (30) from Mafuke Village, Zimunya, and Melissa Chigonde (22) from Zindi, Honde Valley. The tragic incident also claimed the lives of three women from Rowa East, Zimunya—Anna Mudzingwa, Maybe Mundondo, and another whose details were confirmed by family members.
The second devastating accident took place on 29 August at the 49-kilometre peg along the Harare–Nyamapanda Road, in Juru. This crash resulted in the deaths of eight individuals, among them Sunday Stenlodge (23) from Binga Village, Domboshava, and Fadzai Kamurai (25) from Parirewa Village, Domboshava. Tragically, three infants were also among the victims: Lin Nyamhunga (4), Nyasha Nyamhunga (6 months), and Kersely Matangaidza (2) from Kuwadzana 5, Harare. The accident further claimed the lives of two female juveniles, Matilda Dzangu (28) from Parirewa Village, and Tariro Matangaidza (15) from Kuwadzana 5, Harare, highlighting the devastating impact of road accidents on families and communities.
The third and final fatal accident occurred on 30 August at the 246-kilometre peg along the Mutare–Masvingo Road. Six individuals lost their lives in this crash, including Moses Nyazika (47) and Tamari Nyakabau (39) from Mutare. Others included Juliet Mabika (33) from Nyanyadzi, Happymore Mhuka (37) from Chikanga, Mutare, Everson Chazvino (24) and Tafadzwa Jacopo (27) from ZIMTA, Mutare, as well as Maybe Mazuwa (44) from Pangholin, Masvingo, and Clever Murwei (46) from Chikanga, Mutare.
Zimbabwe Mourns 21 Lives Lost in Multiple Road Accidents Between 28 and 30 August 2025
Commissioner Nyathi reiterated the police’s concern over the frequency and severity of road traffic accidents across the country. “The loss of 21 precious lives within a short span of three days is a stark reminder that road safety must remain a top priority for all motorists,” he said. He urged drivers to adhere strictly to traffic regulations, avoid speeding, and refrain from driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
The ZRP also called on pedestrians and other road users to exercise heightened caution, particularly in rural areas and along high-risk routes. Commissioner Nyathi highlighted that many of the accidents occurred in areas where road conditions are challenging and visibility is limited, further emphasizing the need for vigilance.
Road safety advocates have long warned that Zimbabwe’s roads face multiple hazards, including poor signage, overgrown vegetation along highways, and an increasing number of overloaded or poorly maintained vehicles. These factors, combined with reckless driving practices, contribute to the country’s persistent road accident fatalities.
The recent spate of crashes has prompted renewed discussions about the implementation of stricter road safety measures, including increased police patrols, awareness campaigns, and harsher penalties for traffic violations. Families and community leaders have also called for more investment in road infrastructure to prevent future tragedies.
As Zimbabwe continues to grapple with road safety challenges, the deaths of these 21 individuals serve as a sobering reminder of the fragile nature of life and the urgent need for collective responsibility on the nation’s roads. The ZRP’s appeal to motorists is clear: exercise caution, drive responsibly, and respect traffic laws to prevent further loss of life.
Commissioner Nyathi concluded by expressing heartfelt condolences once again to the bereaved families and pledged that the police will continue to investigate all accidents thoroughly while intensifying road safety education across the country. “Every life lost on our roads is a tragedy that affects families, communities, and the nation as a whole,” he said.
Source- ZimEye
