Government Under Fire as Crash Victims Treated with Cardboard and Tape
President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government is facing intense scrutiny over its handling of a recent tragic road accident, which has once again exposed the critical shortcomings of Zimbabwe’s healthcare system.
Disturbing images circulating on social media show victims receiving medical attention with their broken limbs stabilised using makeshift splints crafted from cardboard, tape, and fabric.
These visuals have fuelled public outrage, drawing widespread condemnation for the nation’s inadequate emergency response and healthcare infrastructure.
The fatal crash occurred near Lutumba Tollgate along the Masvingo-Beitbridge highway and involved a Beitbridge-bound Urban Connect bus and a haulage truck.
The collision claimed 25 lives and left many others severely injured. However, what has sparked even greater concern is the appalling state of medical care provided to survivors.
ALSO READ: Beitbridge accident: Urban Connect bus had no route permit, driver used expired retest certificate
Neshuro District Hospital, one of the closest medical facilities to the crash site, has long suffered from resource constraints. Reports indicate the hospital lacks essential infrastructure, including a functioning mortuary, a proper kitchen, and even basic cleaning equipment.
Nurses, struggling to cope with limited resources, have reportedly resorted to using sticks to wash hospital linen, highlighting the deep-seated deficiencies in Zimbabwe’s public health system.
Several high-ranking government officials, including Transport Minister Felix Mhona, Local Government Minister Daniel Garwe, and Matabeleland South Provincial Minister Eveline Ndlovu, visited the hospital to check on the accident victims.
However, their visit drew criticism after photos emerged showing them standing by as victims lay on hospital beds with their injuries crudely treated. Many have dismissed the visit as a mere public relations exercise rather than a genuine effort to address the crisis.
