At least 35 people were killed this morning (18 August) in two separate road accidents in the districts of Manhiça and Chongoene, in the provinces of Maputo and Gaza respectively.

In Manhiça, Maputo province, at least 24 people died at the scene. The injured were taken to Manhiça District Hospital, while the bodies of the deceased were transferred to the hospital morgue.

The vehicle involved in the accident was reportedly travelling in the Gaza–Maputo direction.

In Gaza province, 11 people were killed and eight others seriously injured following a collision between a lorry and a passenger minibus in Chongoene district.

President Daniel Chapo has expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and urged motorists to exercise greater caution on the roads.

“This morning we received the sad news of a road accident in Gaza province, specifically in Chongoene district, which claimed the lives of our brothers. We would like to take this moment to extend our condolences to the bereaved families,” President Chapo said in Tete, during the opening of the 12th National Festival of Culture.

The Head of State appealed for strict observance of traffic regulations in order to prevent further tragedies. “We urge all drivers using our public roads to act with prudence and avoid violating traffic rules,” he stressed.