President Mnangagwa Declares State of Disaster After Deadly Kombi Explosion Kills 18 Near Bulawayo

President Mnangagwa Declares State of Disaster After Deadly Kombi Explosion Kills 18 People Near Bulawayo

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has declared a State of Disaster following a devastating vehicle explosion that killed 18 people along the Bulawayo–Beitbridge Road on Thursday afternoon.

Also Read: Gwanda Kombi Explosion: What We Know So Far As Bomb Squad Deployed

Tragedy on Gwanda Road

The fatal incident occurred between Chipangali Wildlife Orphanage and the Gwanda Tollgate when a Toyota Quantum minibus burst into flames under unclear circumstances.

The victims, believed to have been mourners returning from a funeral in Nkayi, died on the spot as the explosion tore through the vehicle.

Authorities say the blast left a trail of destruction, with bodies scattered across the road and nearby areas, while the vehicle was completely burnt out.

Government Responds

Local Government Minister Daniel Garwe said the President’s declaration was made in terms of the Civil Protection Act and is meant to facilitate coordinated assistance to affected families.

He noted that the move enables Government to mobilise resources and provide support during what he described as a period of national grief.

Investigation Underway

Preliminary findings suggest the vehicle, belonging to a South African funeral services company, was travelling from Bulawayo when an explosive material detonated. However, authorities say the exact cause of the blast remains unknown.

The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirmed the incident and said investigations are ongoing, with forensic teams examining the scene.

Some of the victims were burnt beyond recognition, while others were severely dismembered, prompting plans for DNA testing to establish identities.

Eyewitness Accounts of Horror

An eyewitness who arrived shortly after the explosion described a scene of devastation, with bodies lying across the road and in surrounding areas. Two victims were reportedly still alive but succumbed to their injuries before medical assistance arrived.

Emergency services, including fire brigade teams, police and military personnel, rushed to the scene, but the vehicle had already been reduced to a shell.

Road Closures and Detours

Authorities temporarily closed the affected stretch of road to allow investigations, with motorists being redirected to alternative routes. Officials urged the public to avoid the area as forensic examinations continue.

Investigators have since launched a full-scale probe into the incident, amid reports that fragments suspected to be explosive material were recovered near the wreckage.