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PRESIDENT Mnangagwa this morning expressed shock and sadness at the tragic loss of lives in the horror accident involving two buses that occurred at the 166-kilometre peg along the Harare-Mutare Highway yesterday.

The accident that involved Bolt Cutter and Smart Express buses occurred around 5.30pm.

President Mnangagwa wished the injured a speedy recovery.

“Last night, a heartbreaking tragedy occurred on the Harare-Mutare Road. The great loss of life, the pain and the anguish of the families and victims are today felt by an entire nation.

“At this difficult time, we must come together. Government will ensure the injured receive the treatment they need, and the victims the support they deserve. We will be there for you.

“As we move forward, it is incumbent upon us to investigate how this happened, draw the relevant insights and implement tough new regulations to make these tragic incidents a thing of the past.

“My thoughts and prayers go out to all the victims and their families. The people of Zimbabwe stand with you during this difficult time.”

Meanwhile, the government has declared the accident a disaster revealing that the victims will get State assisted burials while those who were injured will get monetary support for medical bills.

Speaking before a Bulawayo councillors’ induction workshop, Local Government, Public Works and National Housing Minister July Moyo  said funds have been released to assist in the burial of the victims and those in hospital.

“In the case of this disaster, we are fortunate that the two bus companies had insurance cover as is required by law and our civil protection unit in the Ministry is now working with the Insurance Council of Zimbabwe. And all of them have agreed that bereaved family members will receive $1 350 to assist in the buying of coffins and buying of burial graves and also to ensure that those who are in hospital the insurance companies will pay $1000 to each patient to cater for their medical bills,” said Minister Moyo.

Minister Moyo appealed to the nation to join hands in dealing with the disaster as they did during the cholera outbreak.

More to follow