In a tragic series of events, a terrible road accident that occurred 19 kilometers from Mitwaba center, in the Haut-Katanga province, claimed the lives of at least 19 people. The victims were on board a truck carrying not only goods, but also passengers. Leaving Lubumbashi to reach Malemba Nkulu in the Haut-Lomami province, this journey quickly turned into a nightmare.
The scenario of the accident remains chilling: the vehicle overloaded with more than 40 tons of cement bags overturned, taking with it many innocent lives. The figures speak for themselves: 19 dead, including 9 men, 6 women and 4 children, as well as 8 injured who are fighting for their survival. Witnesses report that the driver lost control of the truck, suggesting the possible influence of drink driving.
The emergency situation facing the Mitwaba General Reference Hospital should not be overlooked. The injured are in dire need of medication and emergency services are struggling to evacuate them due to the lack of available ambulances. The lack of immediate assistance reinforces the feeling of dismay and desolation that reigns among the region’s inhabitants.
Patrice Kishimba, elected provincial representative of Mitwaba, points to overloading and drunk driving as the main causes of this tragic accident. He also points out that this disaster is unfortunately not an isolated case, with two other accidents already reported in the region in just one month.
Faced with this human distress, a rapid and appropriate response is essential. Local authorities must mobilize the necessary resources to support the bereaved families, provide care to the injured and take concrete measures to prevent future tragedies of this kind.
The echo of this tragedy resonates well beyond the borders of Mitwaba. He stressed the urgent need to raise awareness and strengthen road safety checks to save lives and prevent similar tragedies in the future. The memory of these 19 lives lost must serve as a tragic reminder of the importance of caution and respect for safety rules on our roads.