By Alfred Zacharia
At least 37 people have died and 29 others were injured in a tragic road accident involving two passenger buses in Same District, Kilimanjaro Region.
The accident occurred on the evening of June 28, 2025, at Sabasaba area, when a Channel One bus travelling from Moshi to Tanga collided head-on with a Coaster minibus coming from Same. Both vehicles burst into flames shortly after impact.
Kilimanjaro Regional Commissioner Nurdin Babu, who visited the scene and the victims in hospital, described the incident as one of the worst tragedies ever recorded in the region.
“This is a national disaster. So far, we have lost 37 people. Twenty-nine others are receiving treatment — 24 at Same District Hospital, and five have been referred to Mawenzi Regional Referral Hospital and KCMC,” said Mr Babu.
Due to severe burns, several bodies remain unidentifiable. The government has initiated DNA testing to help with the identification process. Families who suspect their relatives may have been involved have been urged to contact authorities.
Initial police investigations indicate that the accident was caused by a tyre burst on the Channel One bus. The burst led the driver to lose control, resulting in a head-on collision with the Coaster. The impact caused both vehicles to catch fire, trapping many passengers.
Kilimanjaro Regional Police Commander said that a full investigation is underway. The number of casualties may increase as the identification process continues.
This accident highlights ongoing concerns over road safety, particularly the mechanical condition of long-distance buses and enforcement of transport regulations. Authorities are expected to review safety measures on major routes.
More updates will be released as investigations and identification efforts progress.
