During his Easter visit to the Eagle Christian Church in Bloemfontein, President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed his profound sadness over the tragic bus crash that claimed the lives of 45 worshippers from Botswana who were on their way to Moria.

Ramaphosa’s heartfelt condolences and pledge of support underscored the gravity of the loss and shared grief felt by both nations in the wake of the devastating accident. Police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe said they had registered a case of culpable homicide. A little girl (8) was the only surviving passenger and was taken to hospital for medical attention.

“As of 11:00 on Friday (29/3) only 34 bodies have been found. Of the 34, only nine are identifiable.  Authorities are still combing the scene for more bodies. According to the passenger bus list from the owner, who is also a Botswana citizen, there were 31 women and 15 men on board the 45-seater bus. All passengers were from the village of Molepolole, near Gaborone,” Mathe said.

The Interpol National Central Bureau in Pretoria confirmed all the passengers, including the surviving girl, are Botswana citizens.

In his Easter address, President Ramaphosa detailed how the South African government swiftly mobilised efforts to assist the victims’ families and coordinate with authorities in Botswana.

“I spoke to President Masisi of Botswana and passed on our condolences. He was also grateful for the cooperation and assistance that a number of our officials and people of South Africa have rendered to the families of those who have passed away. 

"We are really sad about this happening on an Easter weekend when they were going to Moria for prayers. I will also be talking to the bishops of the Lekganyane churches to pass on my condolences,” said Ramaphosa.

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