A somber cloud hangs over the Limpopo province as a devastating accident claims the lives of 45 worshippers. Their journey to an Easter conference took a tragic turn when the bus they were traveling in lost control and plunged off a cliff. The incident occurred in the Mamatlakala mountain pass, a picturesque yet treacherous route between Mokopane and Marken. The passengers, pilgrims on their way from Gaborone (the capital city of neighboring Botswana), were filled with anticipation and hope. They were bound for a church gathering to celebrate Easter a time of renewal, faith, and reflection. Little did they know that their pilgrimage would end in heartbreak. Among the wreckage and devastation, a glimmer of hope emerged: an eight-year-old girl, the sole survivor. She was airlifted to a nearby hospital, her young life forever marked by this tragedy. As the rescue teams worked tirelessly to recover the bodies of those lost, they encountered unimaginable scenes. Some victims were burned beyond recognition, while others remained trapped within the debris. Authorities are diligently investigating the cause of

the crash. Preliminary reports suggest that the driver lost control, sending the bus hurtling down the rocky slope. The impact was catastrophic, and the bus caught fire upon impact. The flames added to the horror, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake. South Africa mourns the loss of these faithful souls. Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga expressed her condolences to the grieving families. She vowed to repatriate the bodies to Botswana, where loved ones await closure. In her statement, she urged responsible driving during this busy Holisay weekend….a plea for heightened alertness as more people take to the roads. As we grapple with the magnitude of this tragedy, let us remember the names and faces of those who perished. They set out on a journey of faith, seeking solace and community. Instead, they found an untimely end on the rugged slopes of Mamatlakala. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families affected by this heart-wrenching event. May their memories be a beacon of hope, reminding us to cherish life and hold our loved ones close.