01 Apr 2024

The already heartbreaking story of the bus crash that claimed the lives of 45 church members of the ZCC St. Engenas Church in Limpopo, South Africa, has taken an even more tragic turn.

Upon hearing the devastating news of the crash, the church’s head priest Molepolole branch, Mr Daniel Sewagodimo’s own uncle, also passed away, adding to the sorrow felt by the church community.

Mr Sewagodimo’s uncle is said to have passed away shortly on Saturday evening in Molepolole after receiving news of the death of his niece and nephew, who were among the 45 victims of the crash.  The pain and loss felt by the uncle must have been unbearable, as he lost not only his loved ones but also a connection to his church community.

The church leadership revealed this heartbreaking information during a joint meeting with government district leaders on Sunday morning at the church premises.

The purpose of the meeting was to prepare for the mass prayers to be held for the victims of the crash. While the church leaders delivered the news, Mr Sewagodimo’s face was etched with grief and pain.

The suffering he was experiencing was obvious, and it was clear that he was still coming to terms with the loss of his son, niece, and now uncle.

His body language and expression spoke volumes, even as he struggled to remain composed.

As the district commissioner, Ms Tebogo Bagopi spoke, it was clear that she understood the gravity of the situation and the impact it had on the church and the community.

She however, assured the church leadership that government considered this tragedy a national disaster and would provide all the support and assistance needed.

The relief and gratitude on the faces of the church leaders was evident as they heard these words.

The weight of responsibility they had been carrying had been lifted, and they knew that they would not have to face this difficult situation alone.

Senior Social Welfare official, Ms Chamdapiwa Mpolokang said to help those affected by this tragedy, government had already deployed social welfare officers to visit families and assess their needs. “Government will also cover the costs of coffins for those who do not have funeral covers, and provide a relief package of refreshments to every affected family by Monday,” she said.

These measures were designed to provide immediate support and assistance to those who had been impacted by the tragedy.

In addition, government psychosocial support services will also be made available to those who have been affected by the tragedy, including the owner of the bus and the family of the bus driver, who were not members of the church but still suffered significant loss and trauma. 

This shows the government’s commitment to providing support to all those affected by this tragedy, regardless of their affiliation. Ends