Harare,  (New Ziana) – The Insurance Council of Zimbabwe (ICZ) and its members, comprising non-life insurers and reinsurers, have extended deepest condolences to the families of the 17 people who perished in a horrific road traffic accident at the Manyame Bridge in Chitungwiza on Tuesday.

The accident, involving a lorry and a commuter omnibus, has plunged the nation into mourning, prompting an outpouring of grief and urgent intervention from stakeholders. Seventeen people died on the spot when a Chitungwiza-bound commuter omnibus and a haulage truck were involved in an accident at the Manyame Bridge along Seke Road on Tuesday.

“The Insurance Council of Zimbabwe ICZ) and its members, the non-life insurers and reinsurers in Zimbabwe, extend their profound and heartfelt condolences to the families and the nation of Zimbabwe on the devastating loss of seventeen lives in a tragic road traffic accident that occurred on the 22nd of July 2025 at the Manyame Bridge in Chitungwiza.

“The lorry involved in the accident had COMESA Yellow Card insurance and the commuter omnibus was compliant with the Road Traffic Act Motor Cover and Public Passenger Liability,” the ICZ said in a statement.

“In response to this heart-breaking event, we immediately activated the relevant insurance cover and contracted a funeral parlour to provide comprehensive funeral and burial services for all the deceased within Zimbabwe,” it said.

The ICZ assured families of the victims that they would receive full support and financial assistance during this difficult time, adding that the victims’ next of kin should contact its offices via Toll Free Number 591 to begin the process of accessing insurance compensation benefits.

“Call Centre staff are on standby to assist affected families and ensure a swift and dignified handling of all claims,” the statement read.

The ICZ said it is working closely with the Civil Protection Unit and the Zimbabwe Republic Police to coordinate assistance and ensure that all necessary support reaches the bereaved families without delay.

“As a sector, we stand united with the nation during this time of loss and sorrow. Our commitment to providing financial relief and support in times of tragedy remains unwavering,” said ICZ.

The Manyame Bridge crash is one of the deadliest road accidents recorded in recent months, once again raising concern over road safety and the urgent need for continued vigilance on the highways. Authorities are still investigating the exact cause of the crash.

New Ziana