Story by Patience Nyagato
A grief-stricken community in Tynwald North, Harare, Zimbabwe is struggling to come to terms with the loss of six members of the same family who died in a road accident along the Harare–Masvingo Highway, Zimbabwe on Thursday.
The tragic incident claimed the lives of Lilian Maranda-Mujuru and her five children; Nokutenda Mujuru (15), Makanaka Mujuru (13), Ronald Junior Mujuru (11), Rufaro Shalom Mujuru (7) and Kayden Mujuru (3), leaving the Mujuru family and the wider community devastated.
Family spokesperson, Munashe Sanganai Mujuru, said the loss has left the family in deep sorrow.
“As a family, we are deeply hurt by this loss. We have lost not just six lives, but a mother and her children who meant everything to us. We appreciate the support we have received, and we ask the nation to keep us in their prayers during this difficult time.”
“It is still very hard to believe that they are gone. She was a loving mother, and the children were full of life. This has left a gap that can never be filled,” family member, Nyaradzo Mujuru noted.
To the community, the late Lillian Mujuru was a mother, a sister, and her children were dearly loved by many. They say it is still hard to believe that their lives have been cut short.
“Maka was so loving, and her mom too, she used to take care of a lot of events. Now they are gone, hope they will look after us in heaven,” a neighbour said.
“This is very painful. We knew them as a close and loving family. The mother cared deeply for her children. It is a loss that is very difficult to accept. We just pray for comfort for the family, especially the husband, Ronald. I do not have the right words for him yet as his friend, but I will,” a family friend, Ronald Mavhurutsa added.
As preparations for their final resting place are being held, their death is a rude reminder of the dangers on our roads.
Burial is expected in Chivhu this Sunday.
