Cyril Ramaphosa Mourns 16 Lives Lost in Gauteng Bus Crash
President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed his deep sorrow over the tragic bus crash on the R21 freeway in Ekurhuleni, which claimed the lives of 16 passengers and left 45 others injured. The devastating accident, which occurred near OR Tambo International Airport, involved a passenger bus and a light motor vehicle. Reports indicate that the bus driver lost control, causing the bus to overturn, leading to catastrophic consequences.
A Nation in Mourning
Speaking on the incident, President Cyril Ramaphosa extended his heartfelt condolences to the families who lost their loved ones in the crash. He also wished the injured victims a swift and full recovery.
“While the causes of these recent incidents are still under investigation, we are reminded that tragedies such as these leave more than physical scars, as they cause trauma that affects family relationships and the lives of survivors,” said Ramaphosa.
The president highlighted the devastating impact of road accidents on South African society, emphasizing how such incidents affect livelihoods, emergency services, businesses, and the overall economy.
The Crash: What Happened?
The bus crash took place on the morning of 11 March 2025, when a passenger bus operated by the Ekurhuleni municipality collided with a light motor vehicle on the R21 freeway. The impact caused the bus driver to lose control, leading to the bus overturning near Kempton Park. The passengers, many of whom were traveling from Katlehong to Kempton Park, suffered fatal injuries and severe trauma.
Authorities confirmed that 16 people lost their lives at the scene, while 45 others were rushed to nearby hospitals for medical attention.
Ramaphosa Calls for Road Safety Awareness
President Ramaphosa urged South Africans to reflect on road safety, stating that accidents like this are often caused by human error rather than external factors like law enforcement or road conditions.
“When we ask how safe our roads are, we actually need to ask how safe we are as drivers and pedestrians. The biggest factor in crashes is human error, not law enforcement or road conditions,” Ramaphosa explained.
The president stressed that drivers must ensure their vehicles are roadworthy and adhere to traffic laws. Failure to do so, he warned, could result in severe consequences, including loss of life, legal action, and financial burdens.
Investigations Underway
Following the tragedy, Transport Minister Barbara Creecy and Deputy Minister Mkhuleko Hlengwa expressed deep concern over the increasing number of bus accidents in South Africa. The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has deployed a crash investigation unit and law enforcement officials to determine the exact cause of the accident.
Meanwhile, families of the victims have been rushing to hospitals in hopes of identifying their loved ones. To assist affected families, Ekurhuleni Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza announced that a disaster management centre has been activated, where relatives can enquire about missing or injured family members.
The Impact of Road Accidents on South Africa
This tragic event serves as a grim reminder of the dangers on South Africa’s roads. According to recent statistics, the country experiences thousands of fatal accidents annually, many of which involve public transport vehicles such as buses and taxis. The economic and emotional toll of these accidents is immeasurable, affecting families, businesses, and emergency services.
Ramaphosa emphasized that reckless driving, speeding, and failure to obey traffic rules remain the leading causes of road fatalities. He urged drivers to exercise caution, especially when transporting large groups of passengers.
A Call for Safer Roads
As investigations continue into the Ekurhuleni bus crash, President Ramaphosa has called for greater road safety awareness and stricter enforcement of traffic regulations. He urged motorists, pedestrians, and public transport operators to take responsibility for preventing further tragedies on South African roads.
With 16 lives lost and dozens injured, this accident is a stark reminder of the importance of safe driving. As families mourn and survivors recover, South Africa must unite in ensuring safer roads for all.
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