The death toll from Sunday afternoon’s accident involving a Rusape Area Zone football team has risen to five, after three more victims died upon hospital admission, while nine others remain in hospital with serious injuries.
The crash occurred along the Mutare–Harare Road near Folkington Farm when a Toyota Hiace carrying members of Ripplemead Football Club veered off the road and hit a tree. The team was travelling to Nyazura for a match against Holy Stars but was reportedly running late.
The driver, who is also receiving treatment in the hospital, has not yet produced a valid driver’s licence. Survivors allege he was speeding and lost control of the overloaded vehicle.
Rusape General Hospital Medical Superintendent, Dr Stewart Karembo, said those injured are recovering, while two patients with serious injuries have been transferred to Victoria Chitepo Provincial Hospital for specialist care.
“Five people died from that accident. Two died on the spot and were brought to our mortuary,” said Dr Karembo.
“We received 30 patients – 16 were attended to at the Outpatients department and were discharged as they had minor injuries. Three died upon admission at casualty department.
“10 were admitted in male ward and two in the female ward. Two with serious head injuries were transferred to Victoria Chitepo Provincial Hospital for neurosurgical treatment. Seven are still admitted at the hospital.”
The deceased have been identified as Tichaona Njalakowa, Bhobho Mufudza, brothers Public and Pemberai Chekerano, and Rudo Mukamba.
Makoni Area Zone Football Association (MAFA) secretary Lovemore Josaya said the league has been plunged into mourning and has suspended fixtures to allow for a dignified send-off for the deceased colleagues.
“The MAFA Board, on behalf of the entire football family, extends heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, Ripplemead FC, players, officials and supporters,” reads a statement from the association.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the injured for a speedy recovery. In honour of the departed, all MAFA fixtures scheduled for the weekend of 27-28 June 2026 are hereby postponed.
“A minute of silence will be observed before the start of every MAFA fixture when the league resumes. Clubs are encouraged to tie black armbands during matches as a mark of respect.
“Funeral arrangements will be communicated once confirmed by the families and Ripplemead FC leadership.
“The MAFA Board will coordinate assistance and support to the affected families.
“Let us stand together as one football family during this difficult time.
“May the souls of our departed members rest in eternal peace.”
More: The Manica Post
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