By Tendai Chisiri
Funeral service proceedings for the victims of the tragic Harare–Nyamapanda Highway bus accident were held at Doves Chapel on 10 May 2026 in Harare, where family, friends, and loved ones gathered to pay their final respects.
Government officials from both Zimbabwe and Malawi attended in solidarity with the bereaved families after His Excellency President Mnangagwa declared the accident a national disaster.
The accident occurred on 5 May 2026 when a Malawi-bound BRD Luxury Coaches bus carrying 62 passengers from South Africa crashed. Fourteen passengers died at the scene, while three died upon admission to hospital. Thirty-three others were injured.
Minister of Local Government and Public Works Daniel Garwe and Malawi’s Ambassador to Zimbabwe, General (Rtd) Peter Andrew Lapken Namathanga, presided over the funeral and repatriation ceremony.
The bodies of the Malawian victims were repatriated to Malawi on 11 May 2026. The other two victims, including the driver, were Zimbabweans whose bodies have since been collected by their relatives for burial.
Minister Garwe reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s continued support for Malawi “in good and bad times”.
“On behalf of the Government and people of the Republic of Zimbabwe and His Excellency President Emmerson Mnangagwa, we extend our deepest condolences to the Government and people of Malawi for this tragic occasion. We are with you; our hearts are as broken as yours,” he said.
He commended emergency teams, hospitals, and other institutions that assisted the victims following the accident.
Ambassador Namathanga applauded the Zimbabwean Government and citizens for the support rendered after the accident.
“The swift rescue efforts, medical assistance, and kindness shown by local communities, hospitals, emergency personnel, and security services reflected true African solidarity and humanity,” he said.
Ambassador Namathanga also acknowledged the role played by Malawian embassy officials and staff in coordinating assistance and repatriation arrangements.
The funeral and repatriation ceremony was attended by government officials, diplomats, church leaders, and Malawian citizens in Zimbabwe.
Condolence messages poured in from Zimbabwean and Malawian citizens on Facebook. Doves Holdings was also thanked for its support by many online.
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