In a serious road incident on Friday, December 6, 2024, a bus carrying Tanzanian Members of Parliament was involved in a head-on collision in the Mbande area of Dodoma’s Kongwa district, leaving 19 people injured but fortunately with no fatalities.
The accident occurred while the delegation of 16 MPs, two parliamentary officials, and the driver were traveling to Mombasa, Kenya, to participate in the East African Community (EAC) Inter-Parliamentary Games. According to local authorities, the crash was caused by the bus driver’s negligence during an overtaking maneuver, which resulted in a direct collision with an oncoming truck.
Regional police commander George Katabazi confirmed that all individuals involved in the accident are receiving medical treatment at hospitals in Dodoma, including Benjamin Mkapa and Uhuru hospitals. The bus driver has been arrested and is currently in police custody pending further investigation.
The EAC Inter-Parliamentary Games, which were scheduled to begin on the same day, are an important regional event designed to foster unity and camaraderie among lawmakers from member states. The games typically feature various sports competitions, including football, golf, and athletics.
This incident has sparked widespread concern about road safety, particularly regarding the transportation of public officials. Political leaders and community members have expressed their well-wishes for the quick recovery of those injured in the accident.
Investigations into the precise circumstances of the crash are ongoing, with authorities emphasizing the critical importance of road safety and responsible driving.
