Dr Phophi Ramathuba shares heartbreak after tragic loss

It is with a heavy heart that Dr. Phophi Ramathuba, the Premier of Limpopo Province, has expressed profound sorrow following a devastating road accident that occurred just as Transport Month commenced. The Premier conveyed her deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those who tragically lost their lives, describing the incident as an incredibly painful start to a month dedicated to ensuring safer roads for everyone.

Detailed list of key information

• Premier’s Office: Dr. Phophi Ramathuba, Premier of Limpopo Province.
• Date of incident (as per tweet): October 5, 2025.
• Event: A tragic road accident resulting in fatalities.
• Context: The incident occurred at the very beginning of Transport Month, a period dedicated to road safety awareness and initiatives.
• Location: Although not explicitly stated in the tweet, the Premier’s message implies an incident within the Limpopo Province.
• Affected Individuals: Victims of the accident and their grieving families.
• Involved Departments: Limpopo Department of Transport and Community Safety, emergency services, and the Premier’s Office are actively involved in responding to such tragedies and promoting road safety.

A tragic start to transport month

The Limpopo Provincial Government, led by Premier Dr. Phophi Ramathuba, is reeling from the news of a tragic road accident that has cast a dark shadow over the start of Transport Month. Premier Ramathuba shared her heartbreak, emphasising the deep pain felt across the province for the lives lost. This devastating incident serves as a stark and tragic reminder of the critical importance of road safety, even as the province gears up for a month-long focus on this very issue.

Transport Month, which officially begins in October, is traditionally a period for intensified campaigns aimed at educating the public on safe driving practices, pedestrian safety, and general road awareness. The unfortunate timing of this accident, occurring on the very first days of the month, underscores the urgent need for collective responsibility from all road users – drivers, passengers, and pedestrians alike.

The Premier’s office extends its deepest sympathies to all affected families and commits to providing necessary support during this difficult time. While investigations into the exact cause of this specific incident are underway by the Limpopo Department of Transport and Community Safety, Dr. Ramathuba has reiterated the provincial government’s unwavering commitment to reducing road fatalities and injuries. She calls upon law enforcement agencies to maintain a visible presence and enforce traffic laws rigorously, especially during this crucial month.

Furthermore, the Premier urges all Limpopo residents to exercise extreme caution on the roads, adhere to speed limits, avoid drinking and driving, refrain from using mobile phones while driving, and ensure their vehicles are roadworthy. The goal of Transport Month is to save lives, and despite this painful beginning, the resolve to achieve this goal remains stronger than ever. For more information on provincial initiatives and news from the Premier’s office, please visit the official Limpopo Province website at www.limpopo.gov.za or check out more Premier’s Office News on City of Thohoyandou.

Questions and answers for public benefit

1. What is Transport Month and why is it important?
   Transport Month is an annual campaign in October dedicated to raising awareness about transport safety, highlighting infrastructure development, and promoting efficient and reliable public transport services. It’s crucial for reminding everyone about responsible road use and the government’s efforts to improve transport networks.
2. What is the Limpopo Provincial Government doing to improve road safety?
   The Limpopo Provincial Government, through the Department of Transport and Community Safety, implements various initiatives including road safety awareness campaigns, increased law enforcement visibility, regular vehicle fitness checks, and investments in road infrastructure maintenance and upgrades.
3. How can I report dangerous driving or a road safety concern?
   You can report dangerous driving or road safety concerns to your local traffic department or the South African Police Service. It’s helpful to provide specific details like vehicle registration, location, and time of the incident.
4. Are there any specific campaigns planned for Transport Month in Limpopo?
   Yes, typically during Transport Month, various campaigns are rolled out across the province focusing on different aspects of road safety such as pedestrian safety, curbing drunk driving, and promoting the use of seatbelts. Details will be announced by the Department of Transport and Community Safety.
5. What support is available for families affected by road accidents?
   Support for families affected by road accidents can include trauma counselling, assistance with funeral arrangements in some cases, and guidance on accessing legal or social services. The Department of Social Development often plays a role in providing psychosocial support.
6. What can I do as a regular citizen to contribute to road safety?
   As a citizen, you can contribute by always obeying traffic laws, being a responsible driver or pedestrian, ensuring your vehicle is roadworthy, speaking up against dangerous driving, and actively participating in community road safety initiatives.
7. Where can I find more information about road safety tips?
   More information and tips on road safety can be found on the official website of the Limpopo Department of Transport and Community Safety, the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), and during various public awareness campaigns.
8. How does the government plan to prevent such tragedies in the future?
   The government’s strategy includes a multi-pronged approach focusing on the “4 Es”: Education (awareness campaigns), Engineering (road design and maintenance), Enforcement (traffic policing), and Evaluation (data collection and analysis to improve strategies).
9. Who should I contact if I am involved in an accident?
   If you are involved in an accident, first ensure your safety and that of others, then call emergency services (10111 for police or 112 from a mobile phone) and your nearest traffic department. Exchange details with other drivers if safe to do so.