A bus crash near Makhado in Limpopo province killed 43 people in mid-October. The tragedy has prompted the transport minister to demand answers on recurring road safety issues. In 2024, South Africa saw 146 bus crash fatalities, the highest in five years.
The bus crash near Makhado, Limpopo, claimed 43 lives in mid-October, adding to South Africa's troubling record of road accidents involving public transport. This incident is far from isolated, as similar tragedies have occurred repeatedly in the country.
Data from 2024 shows 146 fatalities resulting from bus crashes, the highest number recorded in a five-year period. A primary contributor to this trend is the weak and inconsistent enforcement of regulations governing bus operators.
In response, the transport minister has demanded answers regarding the crash and the underlying systemic problems. Daily Maverick reporter Lerato Mutsila provides explanation in a video report, highlighting the need for improved oversight to curb such disasters. The event underscores persistent challenges in ensuring passenger safety on South African roads.