3 Killed, 11 Injured in Mutare–Masvingo Road Crash

Rutendo Mazhindu- Zim Now Reporter

The Zimbabwe Republic Police has confirmed a fatal road traffic accident that occurred on April 22, 2025, around 4:30 PM along the Mutare–Masvingo Road. The crash at the 167 km peg involved a Toyota Hiace kombi carrying 14 passengers, which veered off the road, overturned, and landed on its left side.

Three people died in the crash, and eleven others were injured. The deceased were transported to Silveira Mission Hospital mortuary for post-mortem examinations, while the injured received treatment at the same hospital.

This tragic accident comes amid a concerning spike in road traffic incidents during the 2025 Easter and Independence holidays. The ZRP reported 384 road accidents nationwide during the holiday period, resulting in 24 deaths and 178 injuries. While the number of fatal crashes decreased from 26 in 2024 to 21 this year, total accidents rose sharply from 286. The injury toll also increased from 159 to 178.

ZRP spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi urged motorists to prioritise safety. “Motorists must stop, render first aid, and report road traffic accidents to the police. We urge all drivers to be responsible on the roads and follow all rules to protect lives,” he said.

Authorities remain concerned despite a drop in fatalities, pointing to the increase in overall accidents and injuries as a growing road safety challenge in Zimbabwe.