By Business Insider Reporter, Mbeya
The government has pledged to shoulder all burial and medical treatment costs following a horrific road accident that claimed 28 lives on the evening of Saturday, June 7, 2025, along Iwambi Hill on the Mbeya–Tunduma Road, a notoriously dangerous section of the TANZAM Highway.
Among the deceased were four children – two boys and two girls – while nine others sustained injuries.
The victims were passengers in a Mitsubishi Rosa minibus and a Toyota Lite Ace van, which were struck from behind by a speeding Scania truck transporting flour from Dar es Salaam to Zambia.
Mbeya Regional Police Commander ACP Benjamin Kuzaga confirmed that the accident occurred at approximately 7:00 p.m., when the truck – registration T830EDP/T148CTD – failed to brake on a steep downhill section and crashed into the two smaller vehicles.
In a show of solidarity and compassion, the government has announced that it will cover all funeral expenses for the deceased and medical treatment for the injured, including the truck driver, who is currently under police custody while receiving care.
“We recognise the gravity of this loss. The government will cover the full cost of treatment for the injured and will ensure that all burial expenses are handled with dignity,” said Mbeya Regional Commissioner Juma Homera during a press briefing at Mbeya Zonal Referral Hospital.
He also noted that 18 of the deceased have been identified by their families, while 10 bodies remain unidentified. Authorities are working closely with local leaders to assist relatives in the identification process.
The accident has once again drawn attention to the dangers of Iwambi Hill – a stretch of the Tanzam Highway infamous for accidents, particularly involving heavy trucks navigating its steep incline.
“We are also working with Tanroads to accelerate plans for improving road safety infrastructure in this area,” Commissioner Homera added, referencing long-standing calls for better signage, speed control systems, and the construction of emergency truck ramps.
As the nation mourns this tragic loss, the government’s swift response has been welcomed by grieving families and community leaders alike. However, many are urging for not just compassionate aid, but long-term solutions to prevent such tragedies from recurring.
“This time, the government has stood with us in our pain,” said a family member of one of the victims. “Now we need them to ensure that no more lives are lost on this road.”
