The tragic deaths of six Zimbabwean children in a bus accident in South Africa have reached a somber milestone, as their bodies are finally being repatriated for burial. The return of the young victims marks the closing chapter of a painstaking identification process, allowing grieving families at last to lay their little ones to rest. A solemn convoy is set to transport the children by road, bringing the long and tragic journey to its heartbreaking conclusion.
The repatriation of these six minors follows the earlier return of thirty adult Zimbabwean citizens who perished in the same devastating accident. Officials confirmed that delays in returning the children were due to the sensitive and intricate process of ensuring each child was accurately identified, a task requiring far more precision than was necessary for the adult victims.
Zimbabwe’s chargé d’affaires, Sheperd Gwenzi, provided insight into the meticulous efforts undertaken by the diplomatic mission. While the identification of adult victims could be carried out using photographs, fingerprints, and other conventional methods, the children required a more thorough approach.
“The six children were positively identified through DNA testing, and this was further confirmed through physical identification by their families, which took place on Monday at Siloam Hospital,” Gwenzi stated.
Following the confirmation process, all the necessary paperwork and documentation were finalised on Tuesday, clearing the way for the children’s final journey home. According to Gwenzi, the convoy carrying the bodies was scheduled to depart South Africa at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, 19 November 2025, accompanied by officials ensuring the dignified handling of the young victims.
Bodies of Six Children Killed in South Africa Bus Crash Return Home for Burial
As the children’s bodies make their way home, Zimbabwe braces for another round of funerals, adding to a community still grappling with the loss of dozens of citizens. For families, neighbours, and friends, the return of the young victims represents both the conclusion of a harrowing wait and the opening of a painful chapter of mourning.
In the midst of grief, there is a measure of relief for those who survived the tragedy. The diplomatic mission has been closely monitoring the condition of the injured, providing support and reassurance to families desperate for news. Gwenzi offered an update on their recovery:
“Our team, led by Consul-General Mr. Eria Phiri, visited all those admitted in hospitals. Only four remain admitted, and they are recovering well,” he said.
This update provides a fragile beacon of hope for communities otherwise shrouded in sorrow, emphasizing that while lives were tragically lost, some have survived to continue their journey to recovery.
The horrific accident occurred when a DNC bus, travelling towards Port Elizabeth, lost control on the N1 highway near Makhado and plunged off a cliff. The crash, approximately 100 kilometres from the Beitbridge border post, claimed 44 lives in total, including 36 Zimbabweans and 8 Malawians. The children who perished were among the youngest victims, and their deaths have amplified the sense of collective grief felt across the nation.
In response to the catastrophe, the Zimbabwean government has taken swift action to support affected families, shouldering the full cost of repatriation for all the deceased and covering medical expenses for the injured. Gwenzi emphasized that this assistance is vital for families confronting both emotional and financial strain in the wake of the tragedy.
“We understand the immense pain these families are going through. The government’s commitment to covering the costs ensures that no family is left to face these unimaginable burdens alone,” he said.
The return of the children’s bodies, while providing a sense of closure, also serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life. Communities across Zimbabwe, particularly in areas where the victims hailed from, are bracing for a period of mourning, reflecting on the profound loss and rallying around bereaved families. Funerals will provide an opportunity for loved ones, neighbours, and colleagues to come together, honour the memory of the children, and begin the difficult process of healing.
As the convoy moves steadily towards Zimbabwe, it carries with it not only the remains of the six young victims but also the grief, prayers, and hopes of a nation. The tragic accident continues to resonate deeply, a stark reminder of the dangers faced on highways and the fragility of life, while also showcasing the critical role of government and diplomatic missions in supporting citizens in times of profound loss.
In the coming days, families and communities will gather to bid farewell to the children, commemorating their lives and seeking solace in shared mourning, while survivors continue their slow recovery. Through these acts of remembrance and resilience, Zimbabwe honours the memory of those lost and reaffirms the bonds of community that help sustain it through tragedy.
Source- iHarare
