22 Jul 2026

President Advocate Duma Boko’s participation at the unveiling of tombstones for victims of the 2024 Mmamatlakala bus tragedy has been hailed as a powerful demonstration of solidarity and compassion during the National Healing, Remembrance and Closure Programme.

On July 18, President Boko joined hundreds of mourners at Garanta Graveyard in Molepolole for the unveiling of tombstones of 44 members of the St. Engenas Zion Christian Church, who died while travelling to the church’s headquarters in Moria, South Africa, for their annual Easter pilgrimage on March 24, 2024.

The event formed part of the National Healing, Remembrance and Closure Programme, launched by First Lady Kaone Boko to promote healing among communities affected by national tragedies, including the 2015 Matsha College accident and the 2024 Mmamatlakala bus crash.

Earlier in the day, survivors, bereaved families and friends received messages of comfort and hope, with the First Lady encouraging the nation to honour the memories of those who died while embracing healing and unity.

Delivering closing remarks, Molepolole North Member of Parliament, Mr Arafat Khan, commended the First Lady for creating a platform that enabled the nation to remember and honour those who lost their lives.

He said the deceased remained an important part of society whose memories and contributions continued to inspire their communities.

Mr Khan also praised President Boko for personally attending the ceremony, laying wreaths, paying floral tributes, unveiling the tombstones and visiting every grave.

He said the President’s presence brought comfort to grieving families and underscored the importance of continued psychological, emotional and moral support.

“The presence of national leaders during times of grief unites the nation and gives hope to those who are mourning. It is a gesture that deserves appreciation,” he said.

Mr Khan acknowledged that the pain of losing loved ones would endure for many families and urged the public to continue offering support.

“It is clear that this tragedy will continue to affect many families for years to come. Although they have received support, relatives and friends are still grieving. We must continue providing them with emotional and moral support,” he added.

Leading the unveiling ceremony, Mr Prince Teka of the St. Engenas ZCC headquarters in Moria shared biblical messages of hope and remembrance, quoting Genesis 35:19-20 to emphasise the importance of honouring departed loved ones.

He described the unveiling of the tombstones as a lasting tribute to those who lost their lives and encouraged families to cherish their memories while finding strength in faith.

A separate unveiling ceremony for the bus driver, who also died in the accident, was held in Thamaga last Thursday.

Among those in attendance was the sole survivor of the bus tragedy, a teenage girl from Molepolole. ENDS