By Admore Mbonda in Kariba
A pupil from Kasvisva Secondary School lost his life and nine others suffered serious injuries on Friday evening when the truck transporting them overturned at the Kasvisva Business Centre in Kariba Rural.
The truck, which was returning from a sports event in Mavuramachena, reportedly experienced brake failure, veering off the road before tumbling over.
The tragic accident claimed the life of 16-year-old Shupikai Kasinameso, while five other students were rushed to Karoi Hospital and later transferred to Chinhoyi Provincial Hospital for further treatment.
Eyewitnesses described the harrowing scene as chaos ensued after the truck overturned multiple times, leaving the passengers trapped inside.
Of the 20 individuals aboard, including the driver, nine were reported to be in critical condition, prompting immediate concern among families and the local community.
Officer Commanding Hurungwe District, Chief Superintendent Karuru, confirmed the incident, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of young life.
“Yes, I confirm the incident in Kariba Rural which resulted in the death of one pupil and left nine others injured,” he stated.
Chief Supt. Karuru urged schools to prioritize the safety of students by utilizing reputable public transport services and to avoid travel during the hours of darkness.
Investigations are currently underway, with preliminary reports indicating that brake failure may have been the cause of the accident.
This incident is a part of a disturbing trend; the rising fatalities from accidents involving commuter vehicles has raised alarm across the nation.
Just last week, a similar accident occurred near the Showgrounds in Harare, leading to two fatalities and injuring 17 others.
In an effort to assist those affected, Matusadona Conservation Trust provided necessary fuel to the Nyaminyami Rural District Council to transport the injured students to hospitals.
Meanwhile, the body of the deceased pupil has been sent to Karoi for a post-mortem examination.
In light of increasing incidents involving schoolchildren, the government has reiterated its advice that students should not be transported in school vehicles after dark.
In many jurisdictions, school bus operations are restricted to daytime hours to ensure safer travel conditions for children.
As the community mourns this tragic loss, discussions around transport safety for students are more critical than ever.
The hope is that through increased awareness and regulatory measures, such heartbreaking incidents can be prevented in the future.
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