The National Association of Non-Governmental Organisations (NANGO) joins the nation in mourning the 27 lives lost in the tragic road traffic collision involving a commuter omnibus and a haulage truck along the Harare–Chivhu (Harare–Masvingo) highway near Chivhu on the night of Friday, 28 August 2026.
NANGO extends its deepest condolences to the bereaved families, the African Apostolic (Mwazha) Church community, and all those affected by this profound loss. We also wish those injured and receiving medical treatment a swift and full recovery. We recognise and appreciate the efforts of emergency responders, medical personnel, law enforcement officers, local authorities, community members, and others who worked through the night in the rescue, recovery, and response efforts. The loss of so many lives, while families and congregants were travelling, is a painful reminder of the devastating consequences that road traffic crashes can have on individuals, families, and communities.
NANGO reiterates the importance of sustained, multi-stakeholder efforts to strengthen road safety across Zimbabwe. Key priorities include effective enforcement of traffic regulations, measures to address speeding, reckless and dangerous driving, unsafe overtaking and driving under the influence; strengthened regulation and monitoring of public transport operators; improved vehicle roadworthiness and passenger safety; investment in the maintenance and upgrading of road infrastructure, including signage, road markings and lighting; strengthened driver training and licensing systems; and enhanced emergency response, rescue and trauma-care capacity along major highways.
NANGO encourages civil society organisations across all sectors and thematic areas to contribute to road-safety awareness, community education, emergency preparedness, victim and survivor support, and evidence-based advocacy for safer, more accountable and accessible transport systems. We further encourage CSOs and other stakeholders to support ongoing humanitarian, relief and rehabilitation efforts for affected families and communities, while ensuring that the dignity and needs of survivors and bereaved families remain at the centre of the response.
In line with its mandate, NANGO remains committed to supporting coordinated humanitarian response efforts by its member organisations, strengthening collaboration across the civil society sector, and amplifying constructive, evidence-based calls for improved road infrastructure, stronger road safety measures, effective enforcement of traffic regulations and enhanced passenger protection.
Our thoughts and solidarity are with the bereaved families, survivors, the African Apostolic (Mwazha) Church community, emergency responders, medical personnel, and the wider Chikomba community during this difficult time.
May the souls of those who lost their lives rest in eternal peace, and may their families and loved ones find comfort and strength in the days ahead.
NANGO Communications Desk