The death toll from the road traffic accident that occurred at Mhango Curve along the Great North Road in Kafue has risen to two, while six other victims remain hospitalised, police have confirmed.
According to Zambia Police Service spokesperson Godfrey Chilabi, the second victim, Brenda Habusimbi, died at 09:20 hours today at Kafue District General Hospital, where she had been receiving treatment for injuries sustained in the crash.
The accident occurred at around 19:00 hours on Tuesday at Mhango Curve and involved a Toyota Hiace minibus and an unregistered Toyota Land Cruiser.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the driver of the Toyota Land Cruiser, Justine Njobvu, 31, of Chirundu, attempted to overtake at a curve and collided head-on with the oncoming minibus, which was travelling in its correct lane.
The Toyota Hiace, registration number AIE 7650, was being driven by Muzondewa Hamapongo, 36, of Siavonga, and was carrying 11 passengers.
An unidentified female passenger, believed to be between 25 and 30 years old, was the first fatality. She died upon arrival at Kafue District General Hospital on Tuesday night after sustaining severe head injuries. Her body remains in the hospital mortuary awaiting identification and a post-mortem examination.
Police said 10 passengers were initially admitted to hospital with serious injuries following the collision. Three have since been discharged after receiving treatment, while six remain admitted and are continuing to receive medical care.
The driver of the minibus sustained minor injuries, while Njobvu escaped the crash without injuries.
Chilabi said police have launched investigations into the accident and urged motorists to avoid dangerous overtaking, particularly on curves and other hazardous sections of the road.
He further appealed to road users to exercise caution and adhere to traffic regulations to help reduce road traffic accidents and save lives.
