APM mourns Malawians killed in Limpopo bus tragedy

President Arthur Peter Mutharika has expressed deep sorrow following the tragic bus accident that occurred in South Africa’s Limpopo Province on Sunday, October 12, 2025, claiming dozens of lives, including several Malawians.

In a press statement issued by the Office of the President and Cabinet and signed by Dr. Justin Saidi, Chief Secretary to the Government, President Mutharika and the First Lady, Madam Professor Gertrude Mutharika, extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families of both Malawian and Zimbabwean nationals affected by the tragedy.

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“We are deeply saddened by the tragic bus accident that has claimed the lives of Malawian and Zimbabwean nationals. Our deepest sympathies and prayers go to all those affected, particularly the families of the deceased and those who sustained injuries,” the statement reads.

The President also expressed gratitude to the Government and people of the Republic of South Africa for their “prompt response and humanitarian assistance” to the victims of the accident.

He reaffirmed Malawi’s solidarity with Zimbabwe, stating that “both nations mourn this painful loss of life, which has touched the hearts of the entire SADC region.”

Meanwhile, a separate press release from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, signed by Ministry Spokesperson, confirmed that the bus was en route to Malawi and was carrying more than 90 passengers when the accident occurred.

“Regrettably, 43 people lost their lives, while 41 sustained varying degrees of injuries and were taken to hospitals in Limpopo Province for treatment,” the Ministry stated.

Among the deceased were 18 men, 18 women, and seven children, while 11 injured passengers were treated and discharged on Monday, October 13, with 30 others still hospitalized.

The Ministry further revealed that 22 Malawians were confirmed to have been on board, out of which 14 have been identified and accounted for, while eight remain missing.

“Officials from the Malawi High Commission in Pretoria are on the ground, working closely with South African authorities on forensic identification and tracing the whereabouts of missing Malawians,” the statement read.

“The Ministry is also extending necessary consular assistance and ensuring that all Malawians involved in the accident receive appropriate medical care and support.”

The Government of Malawi has assured the public that updates will continue to be provided as more information becomes available.