A horrific accident on Monday in central Mali left at least 15 people dead and 46 injured after a passenger bus collided head-on with a truck, according to the country’s transport ministry.
The bus, travelling from Mopti, the central town, towards the capital, Bamako, met its tragic fate between the towns of Kessedougou and Ouan. “The bus collided with a 10-tonne truck travelling in the opposite direction,” the ministry stated.
Authorities confirmed a provisional death toll of 15 and injuries for 46 individuals, some in critical condition. Civil defence teams promptly transported the victims to the Somino Dolo hospital in Mopti for medical attention.
Mali grapples with a recurring issue of road accidents, often attributed to a combination of factors: poor road conditions, inadequate vehicle maintenance, and human error. This latest incident underscores the urgent need for improved safety measures on the country’s transportation network.
While investigations into the specific cause of the crash are ongoing, the tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by travellers in Mali. The affected communities are likely experiencing immense grief and hardship, and support will be crucial in the aftermath of this devastating event.
