Authorities in Tanzania have reported a tragic accident involving two passenger buses that collided early Sunday morning in Ibihwa Village, Bahi District, central Dodoma region.

The crash occurred as one bus traveling from Mwanza to Dar es Salaam collided head-on with another bus moving in the opposite direction.

Casualties and Injuries

  • Seven passengers died instantly at the scene.
  • One more succumbed to injuries at Dodoma Regional Referral Hospital.
  • Sixty-six others were admitted to the hospital, with several in critical condition receiving specialised care.

Cause of the Accident

Dodoma Regional Commissioner Rosemary Senyamule indicated that preliminary investigations suggest the collision was caused by reckless overtaking by one of the drivers. Formal investigations are ongoing to establish the full circumstances leading to the crash.

A survivor, Jail Martin, recalled the bus swerving unexpectedly moments before the impact, highlighting the suddenness of the incident.

Context

Road safety remains a critical challenge in Tanzania, especially on long-distance routes connecting major urban centers. Factors such as speeding, driver fatigue, and unsafe overtaking continue to contribute to frequent accidents.