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| Road traffic accidents have become a leading cause of death and injury in the country. Photo: Courtesy |
By Adonis Byemelwa
In a somber turn of events, the Tanzanian religious community is mourning the loss of two beloved figures.
Bishop Chediel Sendoro of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania (ELCT) Mwanga Diocese tragically died tonight, September 9, 2024.
His vehicle was involved in a head-on collision with a truck in Kisangiro, Mwanga District.
Kilimanjaro Regional Police Commander Simon Maigwa confirmed the accident.
The news was met with deep sorrow from President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who tweeted, “I am deeply saddened by the news of Bishop Chediel Elinaza Sendoro's passing.
My condolences to ELCT's Bishop Dr. Alex Gehaz Malasusa, and all bishops, congregants, family, and friends.
May the Almighty grant his soul eternal rest. ‘For here we do not have an enduring city, but we are looking for the city that is to come.’ (Hebrews 13:14).”
In a separate but equally tragic incident, Fr. Nicolaus Ngowi of the Precious Blood of Jesus Society also lost his life in a car accident yesterday afternoon in Kilimanjaro.
The head of Provisio Tanzania, Fr. Vedasto Ngowi, confirmed the news with a heavy heart.
These incidents bring to light a troubling reality in Tanzania—road accidents continue to claim numerous lives.
Poor road conditions, lack of stringent enforcement of traffic laws, and substandard vehicle safety measures are major contributors to this crisis.
Road traffic accidents have become a leading cause of death and injury in the country.
This underscores the urgent need for comprehensive reforms in road safety infrastructure, stricter traffic regulations, and enhanced driver education to prevent further tragedies.