In a tragic turn of events, at least four people lost their lives in a horrific kombi accident early this morning near Glendale. The incident occurred when a commuter kombi bound for Bindura veered off the road and overturned, leaving a trail of devastation and grief for the affected families and communities.
According to eyewitness reports, the kombi—which was travelling from Harare to Bindura—lost control in an attempt to avoid a head-on collision with an oncoming vehicle. In the process, one of its rear tyres reportedly burst, causing the vehicle to overturn violently.
Farai Gumbo, a bystander who witnessed the crash, explained the harrowing scene: “The speeding kombi was heading to Bindura when the driver swerved to avoid an oncoming vehicle. Suddenly, one of the rear tyres burst, and the kombi overturned. Two people died on the spot.”
Emergency services were called to the scene promptly. Despite their best efforts, two more passengers succumbed to their injuries after being admitted to a local hospital.
Preliminary investigations suggest that excessive speed and poor road conditions may have contributed to the accident. The narrow, winding stretch of road near Glendale is notorious for accidents, especially among kombi operators who often work under pressure to meet demanding schedules.
Local traffic experts have frequently raised concerns about the condition of this particular route, noting its deteriorating surface and lack of adequate signage. These factors, combined with reckless driving, have turned it into a death trap.
“The issue isn’t just speeding,” said traffic analyst Kudakwashe Ndlovu. “It’s also about road fatigue, vehicle maintenance, and driver discipline. Kombis are often overloaded and in poor mechanical condition, increasing the risk of accidents like this one.”
Kombi Safety and Regulation: Are Enough Measures in Place?
This latest accident has reignited the debate around the safety standards of public transport vehicles in Zimbabwe, particularly kombis. Calls for stricter regulation and enforcement of safety standards are growing louder from both commuters and transport unions.
Several advocacy groups have urged authorities to increase random roadworthiness inspections, impose stricter penalties on speeding, and invest in public awareness campaigns about road safety.
Tatenda Mhlanga, a commuter who uses kombis daily, shared her concerns: “We rely on kombis because they’re affordable and accessible. But our lives are at risk every time we get on one. Something needs to change.”
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed that they are currently investigating the cause of the accident and will release an official statement once more details emerge.
The local community in Glendale has been left reeling by the incident. The four victims, whose identities have not yet been released, were reportedly breadwinners for their families. Local leaders have expressed their condolences and promised support to the grieving families.
Reverend Simbarashe Mutezo, a community leader, described the loss as “deeply painful and entirely preventable.” He urged drivers and transport operators to prioritize human life over profit. “This is a wake-up call,” he said. “We must value life. Whether you’re driving a private car or a kombi, your responsibility is to protect the lives of your passengers and fellow road users.”
In light of the tragedy, transportation watchdogs are calling on the government to take immediate steps to address the systemic issues plaguing public transport. These include upgrading rural and peri-urban road networks, introducing mandatory defensive driving courses, and tightening vehicle inspection procedures. Several officials have echoed these sentiments, acknowledging the urgent need for reform in the public transport sector.
Transport Minister Felix Mhona, speaking at a recent conference, emphasized the government’s commitment to road safety. “We cannot afford to lose more lives due to preventable causes. We will be engaging with stakeholders to implement stronger safety measures for kombis and all public service vehicles.”
The tragic kombi accident near Glendale serves as a grim reminder of the dangers that persist on Zimbabwe’s roads. It underscores the need for comprehensive reforms, improved infrastructure, and a collective commitment to safety by both the government and private transport operators.
As families mourn their loved ones, and communities try to come to terms with the loss, the nation must not let this tragedy fade into the background. Meaningful action is needed—so that the lives lost today can stand as a catalyst for a safer tomorrow.
Source- Bulawayo24