Mutare was plunged into mourning on Saturday after one of its most well-known transport operators, Mr. Godfrey Chikosi, was killed in a devastating road accident that claimed six lives in total. The fatal crash occurred late Friday night along the Mutare–Chimanimani Road, near the Himalaya Turn-Off, leaving the community reeling from the sudden loss of a man widely regarded as a pillar of the city’s transport sector.
According to preliminary information, the accident happened at around 11pm, when the vehicle carrying Mr. Chikosi and others was involved in a serious collision. Details about the exact circumstances of the crash remain unclear, but witnesses said the impact was so severe that four people, including Mr. Chikosi, died instantly at the scene. Two more victims later succumbed to their injuries at Victoria Chitepo Provincial Hospital, where they had been rushed for emergency treatment.
One survivor from the wreck is currently admitted at the same hospital, battling for life with what doctors described as “severe injuries.” Medical sources said the patient remains in critical condition and is being closely monitored by hospital staff.
When contacted for comment, the Acting Manicaland Provincial Police Spokesman, Assistant Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka, could not immediately provide details regarding the cause of the accident. He indicated that a formal statement would be released once investigations have been concluded and next of kin have been fully notified.
However, the absence of official police comment did not prevent word of the tragedy from spreading rapidly across Mutare and beyond. By early morning on Saturday, grief-stricken residents and fellow businesspeople had already gathered at the crash site to witness the aftermath.
The news of Mr. Chikosi’s passing was confirmed by Mr. Isau Mupfumi, another prominent Mutare transporter and long-time associate of the late businessman. Speaking to reporters, Mr. Mupfumi described the incident as a “shattering loss” not only for the transport industry but for Mutare as a whole.
Prominent Mutare Businessman and Five Others Killed in Horrific Road Crash
“I can confirm that my brother in the industry, Mr. Chikosi, is no more. This is a dark day for us,” he said somberly. Mr. Mupfumi immediately dispatched a team to the accident scene in the early hours of Saturday morning to assist in coordinating recovery efforts and to stand in solidarity with the bereaved families.
Mr. Chikosi was a well-known figure in Manicaland Province, celebrated for his commitment to providing reliable passenger and freight services across the region. Over the years, he built a reputation as both an astute businessman and a generous community member, often sponsoring local initiatives and assisting with school fees for underprivileged children.
Colleagues described him as “a hands-on leader who was always available to guide and inspire.” Many credited him with helping to professionalize parts of the local transport industry, ensuring that standards were raised in terms of safety and service delivery.
News of his death drew an outpouring of tributes on social media, where hundreds of Mutare residents expressed shock and extended condolences to his grieving family. “We have lost a true son of Mutare,” one resident wrote. “He gave so much to this city and always carried himself with humility.”
The accident has also reignited debate over road safety along the Mutare–Chimanimani Road, a busy highway that has in recent years been the site of multiple serious accidents. Motorists often complain about sharp curves, poor lighting, and reckless driving, all of which contribute to the dangers faced by commuters.
Transport unions and road safety advocates immediately called for greater enforcement of traffic regulations and the urgent rehabilitation of road infrastructure in Manicaland. “We cannot continue to lose lives in this manner,” one road safety campaigner said. “Every accident is a painful reminder that urgent intervention is needed.”
By Saturday morning, relatives and friends of the victims had begun gathering at Mr. Chikosi’s residence in Mutare to pay their respects. Neighbours described scenes of deep sorrow as mourners trickled in, some struggling to come to terms with the reality of his sudden passing.
Funeral arrangements were yet to be announced by the family, but sources close to them said burial preparations were already underway. A church service is expected to be held in Mutare before the final laying to rest, with hundreds of people anticipated to attend.
For many, the tragedy has left a painful void in the community. “We are in shock. Just yesterday we saw him going about his business, and now he is gone. It is hard to accept,” said one mourner.
As the city of Mutare comes to grips with the loss, calls for accountability, improved road safety, and greater care on the roads continue to grow louder. For the families of the six lives lost—including that of Mr. Chikosi—the grief is immeasurable, and the journey toward healing has only just begun.
Source- ZimEye
