GOVERNMENT PRESS STATEMENT

NO 14 of 2015

BY THE RT HON PRIME MINISTER

DR B.SIBUSISO DLAMINI

WEDNESDAY 2 SEPTEMBER 2015

 

On Friday 28 August 2015 one of the worst tragedies in our country’s history occurred in Matsapha when an accident involving a number of vehicles caused the death of 13 Swazis who included 10 imbali (maidens) on the way to our annual Reed Dance Festival. The Nation is in shock and immensely saddened.

 

Following His Majesty’s expression of condolence I wish to add the condolences of His Majesty’s Government and express our deepest sympathy to the families of the deceased, and to those injured in the accident.

The Nation is in mourning for these tragic deaths and I wish to announce that, following consultation with the affected families, a National Memorial Service will be held at the Old Trade Fair in Manzini on Friday 4 September 2015 commencing at 12 noon.

Government will provide transport to and from the Memorial Service for the families of the deceased. The necessary facilities will be provided for the victims and their families to enable the funeral services and burial activities to be carried out at the chosen places back in the communities.

 

The accident not only caused a tragic loss of life but also inflicted serious injuries, both physical and psychological on many of the maidens who survived. All of these victims are being provided with the necessary medical attention, including psychological counselling where required, until they have recovered. This will include providing the necessary assistance to ensure that there is no interruption to their schooling.

 

At this stage, Government is not in possession of all the details of the accident but, following His Majesty’s command, there will be a formal Enquiry into the accident. The Enquiry will identify the causes and establish processes and standards that will reduce to the absolute minimum the risk of such a terrible accident and loss of life ever happening again.

 

Government wishes to thank all who have provided support following the accident.

Dr B.Sibusiso Dlamini 2 September 2015

Prime Minister