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On the 16th of September 2025. A minibus taxi carrying schoolchildren overturned at KwaKhetha Bridge, leaving twenty pupils injured Impendle, KwaZulu-Natal. Authorities confirmed that the driver, who only held a learner’s license, was arrested at the scene.
What Happened?
The crash occurred on Tuesday morning when the driver lost control of the vehicle. Emergency services rushed the injured learners to nearby hospitals. According to health officials, some pupils have since been discharged, while others remain under medical care.
Official Response
KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Siboniso Duma, condemned the incident and pledged stricter enforcement on unlicensed and reckless drivers.
He further confirmed cooperation with MEC for Health Nomagugu Simelane, MEC for Education Sipho Hlomuka, Umgungundlovu District Mayor Cllr Mzi Zuma, and Impendle Local Municipality.
“We are calling on the South African National Taxi Council in KwaZulu-Natal to come closer to these accidents involving taxi associations and private scholar transport. There are many unroadworthy vehicles being used, and stricter rules will now be applied for accountability,” Duma added.
Community Impact
The accident has heightened concerns about the safety of scholar transport in the province. Parents and community leaders are demanding urgent inspections of vehicles transporting children. Provincial authorities have assured residents that every minibus used for learner transport will undergo roadworthiness checks to reduce preventable tragedies.
How many pupils were injured?
Twenty learners were injured. Some have been discharged, while others are still receiving treatment.
Was the driver licensed?
No. The driver held only a learner’s license and was arrested for driving without a valid permit.
What measures are being taken to prevent future incidents?
All scholar transport minibuses in KwaZulu-Natal will be subjected to stricter inspections, and operators using unlicensed drivers or unroadworthy vehicles face penalties.
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