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Limpopo Premier Condemns N1 Bus Crash as Avoidable Tragedy Rooted in Negligence

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Limpopo Premier Dr. Phophi Ramathuba has labelled the recent N1 bus disaster, which took the lives of 43 people, as a “preventable tragedy” and an example of “criminal negligence.” Her remarks follow disturbing findings that the bus involved was overloaded, speeding, and not roadworthy when it crashed near Louis Trichardt last week.

Meeting with grieving families at Siloam Hospital in the Vhembe District on Monday, Ramathuba extended her heartfelt condolences and stood in solidarity with those mourning their loved ones. Speaking to the affected relatives, she emphasized that this was not a random act of fate, but rather a consequence of “greed and lawlessness” within the cross-border transport sector.

The victims, many of whom were Zimbabwean and Malawian nationals, were travelling home when the bus veered off the N1 highway on October 13, crashing down a steep slope. The crash claimed 43 lives and left another 40 passengers injured.

A report by the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) revealed that the bus was operating in violation of multiple safety regulations — including exceeding its legal passenger capacity, lacking roadworthiness certification, and speeding on a hazardous mountainous stretch. Ramathuba condemned these conditions as more than negligence, calling the crash “a crime against humanity.”

“The state cannot allow people to die because of unchecked greed and a blatant disregard for the law,” she said. “We must clamp down on reckless drivers, illegal transport operations, and unsafe vehicles. Justice must be served.”

Ramathuba also praised emergency responders and healthcare workers for their brave efforts in extremely challenging circumstances. She noted that their quick actions helped save lives and ensured the deceased were treated with dignity. “Our teams worked tirelessly, often at personal risk, to rescue survivors and recover those who lost their lives,” she said.

The Limpopo provincial government is coordinating with the embassies of Zimbabwe and Malawi to support the identification and repatriation of the deceased. Postmortem examinations have been completed, and DNA tests are underway to confirm identities.

Victims’ families are receiving counselling and assistance during the identification process, as they begin to come to terms with their profound loss.

The incident has sparked renewed scrutiny of South Africa’s road safety enforcement, particularly the ongoing problem of unregulated, overloaded long-distance buses. Road safety advocates have long highlighted systemic failures and corruption that enable unsafe vehicles to continue operating, often with deadly consequences.

For many of the bereaved families, the crash not only brought emotional pain but also economic hardship, as several of the deceased were breadwinners supporting families in their home countries.

“Each life lost on our roads is a tragedy that ripples through families and communities,” said Ramathuba.

As recovery and investigation efforts continue, the Premier called on all road users to act responsibly and respect human life.

“There is no substitute for life,” she concluded. “Every trip must begin with responsibility. We must not wait for another catastrophe to remind us of the value of one human life.”

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Current Affairs

Hezy Motors Denies Allegations of Ghost Accounts, Pledges Transparency

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Hezy Motors Logistics has responded to growing public concern over alleged vehicle delivery delays and questionable social media conduct, assuring customers that the company is taking steps to resolve all issues and improve communication.

In a press statement issued Tuesday, the Milton Park-based vehicle import company acknowledged that some customers have experienced delays beyond the standard 4–6 week delivery window, citing logistical bottlenecks at port clearance points in Tanzania and South Africa as the primary cause.

“We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience caused and assure our clients that these issues are being actively resolved,” the company said. “Deliveries are expected to normalize in the coming weeks.”

The company’s statement comes amid complaints circulating online from customers claiming they have waited months for their vehicles, with some alleging unresponsiveness and censorship on the firm’s Facebook page.

In response, Hezy Motors announced the launch of a Client Support & Dispute Resolution Desk, set to become operational on October 24, to handle complaints, inquiries, and provide real-time updates.

The new support lines are:

📞 +263 242 704 321 / +263 776 955 884

📧 info@hezymotors.com

Hezy Motors denied allegations that it used fake social media accounts or ghost testimonials to mislead potential buyers. “We categorically deny all allegations suggesting the use of ghost accounts, fake testimonials, or misleading promotional activities,” the statement read. “Any credible evidence presented will be subjected to a full internal review to maintain transparency and integrity.”

The company also distanced itself from any affiliates or influencers allegedly promoting its services under false pretenses. “Our collaborations with influencers and partners are governed by official marketing agreements, which we are currently refining to ensure accuracy and accountability,” it added.

Despite the backlash, Hezy Motors emphasized that no formal complaints had been lodged directly with its offices and urged affected clients to reach out for assistance.

The company reiterated its commitment to rebuilding trust, improving service delivery, and addressing all customer grievances professionally.

ALSO READ : Manicaland Gears Up for Launch of Presidential Provincial Empowerment Fund

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Manicaland Prepares for Launch of Presidential Empowerment Fund

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Preparations are in full swing for the official launch of the Presidential Provincial Empowerment Fund, set to take place on 2 November in Manicaland. This landmark event is a key initiative under the visionary leadership of His Excellency, President Dr. E.D. Mnangagwa, and is supported by his Presidential Advisor, Dr. Paul Tungwarara.

The Empowerment Fund represents a bold step toward inclusive economic development, aiming to uplift communities across Zimbabwe — with a strong commitment to ensuring that “No One Will Be Left Behind.”

The programme will provide targeted financial and resource-based support to a wide range of beneficiaries, particularly grassroots entrepreneurs, youth, women, and vulnerable groups. It also reaffirms the government’s pledge to create opportunities for all citizens — including affiliates and card-carrying members of the ruling party, ZANU PF.

The launch event will bring together a broad coalition of community-based organisations, advocacy groups, and patriotic networks, all united in the drive for national development. Among those expected to participate are:

Vapostori for ED

Children of War Veterans

Health Ambassadors

Cross-Border Traders 4ED

Hairdressers 4ED

Vendors 4ED

Boyz dza Mdara

Pastors 4ED

NAMFED, under the leadership of Madzibaba Obey, who will serve as the event’s Chief Convener.

These groups have played a critical role in mobilising communities and promoting the empowerment agenda championed by the Second Republic.

Event Details:

📅 Date: 2nd November 2025

📍 Venue: Manicaland Province (Exact location TBA)

👤 Chief Convener: Madzibaba Obey (NAMFED)

🎤 Key Participants: Government officials, local leadership, community groups, business representatives, and youth networks

As Zimbabwe moves forward with its Vision 2030 development agenda, initiatives like the Provincial Empowerment Fund are central to bridging gaps in economic opportunity and fostering self-reliance.

Dr. Tungwarara, a key driver of the initiative, emphasised the importance of sustainable, locally-driven development. “This is not just about funding — it’s about dignity, inclusion, and building a Zimbabwe that works for every citizen,” he said.

The Manicaland launch marks the beginning of a nationwide rollout of similar provincial empowerment programmes aimed at catalysing grassroots transformation.

Citizens from across Manicaland and beyond are encouraged to attend and take part in this transformative event. As Zimbabweans unite behind this empowerment vision, the message is clear: the future belongs to everyone, and no one will be left behind.

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Teen 17 Burnt to Death

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Harare Police are shocked and horrified by the the discovery of a female teeanager’s body, burnt beyond recognition in Hatfield.

National Police Spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the targic incident saying a probe is currently underway.

“The ZRP is investigating a case of murder in which the body of a yet to be identified female was discovered burnt beyond recognition at Kutsaga Research Farm, Hatfield, Harare on 13 May 2025 at around 1500 hours. “The body was conveyed to Chitungwiza Hospital mortuary for post mortem where it was discovered that the body was that of a young female approximately aged 17.”

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