Community mourns twelve lives lost in R81 accident

It was a truly heartbreaking day for Limpopo province as Dr. Phophi Ramathuba, the Premier, joined thousands of people at the Tiyani Magoro sports ground in Collins Chabane municipality to bid a final farewell to 12 individuals who tragically lost their lives in a road accident on the R81. These beautiful souls were reportedly on their way back home from church when the devastating incident occurred, leaving the community in deep sorrow.

A solemn day for Limpopo residents

• Event: Funeral service for 12 victims of a tragic road accident.
• Date of incident (implied): Shortly before October 4, 2025, as the Premier attended the send-off on this date.
• Location of funeral: Tiyani Magoro sports ground, Collins Chabane municipality.
• Location of accident: The R81 road.
• Number of victims: 12 people.
• Circumstances: The victims were travelling back from church.
• Key individuals involved: Dr. Phophi Ramathuba, the Premier of Limpopo Province, who personally attended to offer condolences and support.
• Attendees: Thousands of fellow mourners from the community and surrounding areas.

Premier’s office responds to tragic R81 accident

The Limpopo Provincial Government, led by Premier Dr. Phophi Ramathuba, extended its deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of the 12 individuals who tragically passed away in a devastating road accident on the R81. The Premier’s presence at the funeral service at Tiyani Magoro sports ground underscored the provincial government’s commitment to standing in solidarity with its communities during times of immense grief.

The accident, which claimed the lives of worshippers returning from church, has sent shockwaves through the Collins Chabane municipality and the entire province. The Premier acknowledged the profound pain and loss experienced by the families and the community, emphasising the importance of collective support during such a difficult period. While attending the service, Dr. Ramathuba conveyed messages of comfort and assured the community that the government is exploring all possible avenues to prevent similar tragedies from happening again on our roads.

The Premier’s office coordinates with various departments, including the Department of Transport and Community Safety, and Social Development, to ensure that comprehensive support is provided to the affected families. This includes assistance with funeral arrangements where needed, as well as counselling services for those grappling with the trauma and loss. The government remains dedicated to implementing robust road safety campaigns and improving road infrastructure to make travel safer for all residents of Limpopo. For more information on government initiatives and services, please visit the official Limpopo Provincial Government website: www.limpopo.gov.za.

Common questions and answers for the community

1. Q: What is the government doing to support the families affected by this tragedy?
2. A: The provincial government, through departments like Social Development, is providing grief counselling services and working with affected families to offer assistance with funeral arrangements and other immediate needs where possible.
3. Q: How can residents contribute to improving road safety in Limpopo?
4. A: Residents are encouraged to adhere strictly to traffic laws, report reckless driving to authorities, and participate in community-led road safety initiatives. Public awareness is crucial.
5. Q: Is there an ongoing investigation into the cause of the R81 accident?
6. A: Yes, law enforcement agencies, including the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Department of Transport, are conducting a thorough investigation to determine the exact cause of the accident.
7. Q: What specific measures is the Premier’s office taking to prevent future road accidents?
8. A: The Premier’s office is working with the Department of Transport and Community Safety to strengthen law enforcement, intensify road safety education campaigns, and assess infrastructure needs to upgrade hazardous road sections across the province.
9. Q: Where can I access counselling services if I or someone I know is struggling to cope with the loss?
10. A: You can contact your local social services office or the Limpopo Department of Health for information on available counselling and psychological support services for trauma and grief.
11. Q: Are there any plans to address the safety of the R81 road in particular?
12. A: All provincial roads, including the R81, are regularly assessed for safety improvements. Following this tragic incident, the Department of Transport and Community Safety will review the road’s condition and implement necessary interventions.
13. Q: How can I stay informed about the latest news and updates from the Premier’s Office?
14. A: You can find more news and announcements from the Premier’s Office by visiting the Premier’s Office News section online: www.cityofthohoyandou.co.za/category/premiers-office-news/.
15. Q: What is the Premier’s message to the community of Collins Chabane during this difficult time?
16. A: The Premier expresses profound sorrow and sends a message of strength, unity, and resilience to the community, reassuring them that the provincial government stands with them and is committed to fostering safer communities.