Tragic Bus Accident Claims 42 Lives in South Africa

Mon Oct 13 2025 15:44:52 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

A devastating bus crash on a mountain pass in South Africa has resulted in 42 fatalities, including seven children, as authorities investigate the cause.

A horrific bus accident on the N1 highway in Limpopo, South Africa, took the lives of 42 individuals from Zimbabwe and Malawi, with 49 others injured. The bus overturned while navigating a mountainous area, leading to a plunge off the road. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed condolences for the loss, which reverberates through neighboring countries, as investigations into the causes of the tragedy commence.

The tragic accident occurred when a bus transporting a group of Zimbabwean and Malawian nationals overturned in a mountainous section of the N1 highway late Sunday night. According to local transport officials, the vehicle veered off the road and plunged down an embankment, leading to one of the deadliest road accidents in recent memory.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed his sorrow over the incident, highlighting that it was a tragedy not only for South Africa but also for its neighboring countries of Zimbabwe and Malawi. Among the deceased were 18 women, 17 men, and seven children, while 49 individuals sustained injuries.

The exact cause of the accident has yet to be determined, prompting an immediate investigation. Reports indicate that the bus was en route from Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape when the crash unfolded. Government officials, including Transport Minister Barbara Creecy, are expected to visit the crash site and the injured survivors to assess the situation and provide support.

This incident has raised concerns regarding road safety in the region, particularly during challenging driving conditions such as mountainous passes. Further updates will follow as the investigation progresses and more information becomes available.