On December 6, 2024, tragedy struck as a bus carrying Members of Parliament (MPs) from Tanzania to Mombasa for the East African Community (EAC) inter-parliamentary sports games was involved in a severe accident. The accident occurred when the bus collided head-on with a lorry in the Mbande area, Kongwa District in the Dodoma region. Preliminary investigations indicate that the driver of the bus failed to observe caution while overtaking, leading to the collision. At least 19 people sustained injuries, including 16 lawmakers, two parliamentary staff, and the bus driver.
The injured were swiftly transported to various hospitals for treatment. The Speaker of the National Assembly, Moses Wetang’ula, extended his prayers for their recovery, stating, “The injured MPs have been rushed to the hospital and are receiving treatment. We wish a quick recovery to those who have sustained various injuries.” The affected MPs are receiving medical care at Benjamin Mkapa Hospital, Dodoma Regional Referral Hospital, and Uhuru Hospital in Tanzania. Wetang’ula assured that further updates would be provided once the MPs arrive in Mombasa for the games, expressing hope for their recovery and swift return to their duties.
Nairobi Women Representative Esther Passaris also wished the MPs a speedy recovery. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the injured Members of Parliament as they receive medical care,” Passaris said. “We wish them a swift and full recovery, and we hope to welcome them warmly in Mombasa soon. In this difficult time, we stand together in solidarity.” This sentiment was echoed by many across the East African region as they wished for the MPs’ full recovery and expressed solidarity with the affected.
The EAC inter-parliamentary sports games are a significant annual event for East Africa, promoting unity and friendship among the member states through sports. This year’s 14th edition was set to run from December 6 to December 18, bringing together representatives from Rwanda, South Sudan, Uganda, Tanzania, the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA), and the host country, Kenya. The games were scheduled to take place across six venues in Mombasa, including Mbaraki Stadium, which is currently undergoing renovation. Other venues include the Aga Khan Academy, KPA Makande Hall, Nyali Golf Club, and Shanzu Teachers Training College, where various sports disciplines such as football, netball, volleyball, basketball, darts, athletics, tug-of-war, and golf were set to be contested.
The accident not only disrupted the EAC games but also highlighted the importance of road safety, especially for officials and participants traveling long distances. The EAC Secretariat expressed concern over the incident and urged member states to reinforce safety measures for participants and spectators alike. The incident serves as a reminder of the challenges faced during such large-scale events and the importance of vigilance on the roads.
Despite the setback, the spirit of unity and cooperation among the East African countries remains strong. The accident has brought together leaders and citizens across the region to offer support to the injured MPs and their families. The EAC games are not just a sports event but a symbol of regional integration, peace, and shared values. The Nairobi Women Representative’s message of solidarity reflects this deeper meaning, as the East African Community strives to foster closer ties and promote cultural exchange through sports.
In the coming days, the focus will be on ensuring the full recovery of the injured MPs and facilitating their safe return to their duties. As the games continue, the hope is that the strength and resilience displayed by the participants will serve as a testament to the resilience of the East African spirit. The community will be watching closely, supporting each other as they recover and looking forward to resuming the games once the injured MPs are well enough to participate.
The East African Community’s inter-parliamentary sports games remain a significant event in fostering unity among member states. While the accident was a tragic event, it has also been a reminder of the importance of coming together in solidarity, regardless of circumstances. The thoughts and prayers of the entire East African Community are with the injured MPs and their families as they recover, and the hope is that they will soon be back on their feet, ready to continue their important work on behalf of their respective nations.
