Tragedy struck as a bus carrying worshippers to an Easter conference veered off a cliff in South Africa’s Limpopo province, claiming the lives of 45 people.
The crash occurred in the Mamatlakala mountain pass between Mokopane and Marken. Reports indicate that the bus caught fire upon impact.
The sole survivor, an eight-year-old girl, has been hospitalized.
The passengers, pilgrims from Botswana’s capital city, Gaborone, were en route to a church gathering for Easter.
The cause of the crash is under investigation, with authorities citing the driver’s loss of control as a possible factor.
Efforts are underway to recover the bodies, with some being burned beyond recognition.
South African Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga expressed condolences and announced plans to repatriate the victims’ bodies to Botswana.
She emphasized the importance of responsible driving, especially during the Easter weekend when roads are busier.
