South Africa is in mourning after 13 schoolchildren lost their lives on Monday when a minibus collided with a truck near the industrial city of Vanderbijlpark, south of Johannesburg, local officials confirmed.
Three other children were hospitalized with injuries following the incident, authorities said.
Police believe the crash may have been caused by a dangerous overtaking manoeuvre, and a culpable homicide case is set to be opened, according to a police official speaking to Newzroom Afrika.
President Cyril Ramaphosa extended his condolences to the families, teachers, and friends of the victims, emphasizing the urgent need to protect learners on South Africa’s roads.
Transport Minister Barbara Creecy noted that the country’s road fatalities remain a serious concern. Although deaths dropped by 6% in 2025, totaling 11,418 or roughly 31 deaths per day, speeding and drink-driving continue to drive the majority of accidents. “The number of deaths on South Africa’s roads is a reason for national shame,” Creecy said.
The Vanderbijlpark tragedy has reignited public debate over road safety measures and the enforcement of traffic laws nationwide.
