37 killed as two buses collide in Tanzania's Kilimanjaro region
The accident involved a long-distance passenger bus operated by Chanel One, which was traveling from Moshi to the Tanga Region, and a minibus heading in the opposite direction, from Same to Moshi.
At least 37 people have been confirmed dead and 23 others injured following a devastating head-on collision between two buses on June 28, 2025, in the Same district, Kilimanjaro Region.
Rescue operations were underway at the time of this reporting.
The accident involved a long-distance passenger bus operated by Chanel One, which was traveling from Moshi to the Tanga Region, and a minibus heading in the opposite direction, from Same to Moshi.
The impact caused both vehicles to catch fire.
Kilimanjaro Regional Fire and Rescue Commander, Jeremiah Mkomagi, who is overseeing operations at the scene, confirmed the current figures late tonight, stressing that they are still preliminary.
“So far, 36 bodies have been recovered from the scene, and 23 injured individuals have been rushed to hospital for treatment,” Commander Mkomagi stated.
“The rescue and recovery mission is ongoing.”
Preliminary reports suggest that the passengers aboard the Toyota Coaster were en route to attend a wedding celebration at Kuringe Hall, a popular event venue in Moshi town.
Emergency services, including firefighters, police, and medical personnel, remain at the site as efforts continue into the night.
President Samia Suluhu took to her socials to offer condolences over the tragedy.
"Nimepokea kwa masikitiko makubwa taarifa ya vifo vya ndugu zetu 37 na majeruhi 30 kutokana na ajali ya barabarani iliyotokea jana jioni eneo la Sabasaba, Barabara Kuu ya Moshi - Tanga, Wilaya ya Same mkoani Kilimanjaro, kwa magari mawili kugongana na kuungua moto. Ninawaombea kwa Mwenyezi Mungu marehemu wote wapumzike kwa amani, na majeruhi wote wapone kwa haraka," posted Samia.
Translation: "I have received with great sadness the news of the deaths of 37 of our brothers and 30 injured due to a road accident that occurred yesterday evening in the Sabasaba area, Moshi-Tanga Highway, Same District in Kilimanjaro Region, when two vehicles collided and caught fire. I pray to God that all the deceased may rest in peace, and that all the injured may recover quickly."
