PRESIDENT Mnangagwa has expressed his heartfelt condolences to the families of the 16 people who died on Friday morning in the Featherstone road accident which he has declared a national disaster.

He also wished the seven seriously injured people a speedy recovery saying the Government was going to provide support to the affected families and called on thorough investigations to be carried out to ascertain the cause of the accident to avoid a recurring loss of human capital in the country.

In a statement issued by Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet Dr Misheck Sibanda, the President said he received the message with sadness and distress.

“His Excellency, President ED Mnangagwa has received the news of the loss of 16 lives and injuries to others in the road accident that took place at Featherstone near Chivhu on the Harare-Masvingo road, with sadness and distress.

“On behalf of the nation, the Government of Zimbabwe and on his own behalf, he expresses his deepest condolences to the bereaved families and those affected. He wishes a quick recovery to those injured,” reads part of the statement.

President Mnangagwa declared the accident a national disaster and directed that resources be availed to assist the affected families in their moment of need and grief.
Meanwhile, National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi yesterday said the death toll has since increased to 19 after three more people died from injuries sustained in the accident.State media