48-year-old Joseph Phiri will be buried today after losing his life during a routine day on the job with the Lusaka City Council (LCC) highways maintenance crew which quickly turned tragic after a roller compactor he was operating run him over.
The day began like any other, with Phiri operating a hand-held roller compactor to smooth out a section of roadway.
But what started as a common assignment swiftly took a deadly turn when the compactor inexplicably ran over Phiri, causing grievous injuries that claimed his life.
The incident transpired along Kasangula Road on Thursday afternoon, where the deceased was part of a team that was mending potholes.
While attempting to shift the hand-held roller compactor, Phiri tragically lost control of the machine, which knocked him off the light truck and rolled over him, inflicting fatal injuries.
Despite efforts of his colleagues to transport Phiri to Kamwala Urban Clinic, his injuries were too severe, and he was pronounced dead upon arrival.
His body was later transferred to the University Teaching Hospital (UTH) to determine the exact cause of death.
Kamwala Ward Councillor Mainda Simataa offered his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and paid tribute to the fallen city worker’s extraordinary dedication and expertise in operating the hand-held roller compactor.
Meanwhile, LCC expressed profound sorrow over the death of Phiri, describing him as a dedicated and valued member of their team.
LCC public relations officer Chola Mwamba announced that Phiri would be laid to rest today at Leopards Hill Cemetery.
“We mourn the passing of a valued member of our team and acknowledge the immense impact his loss will have on his loved ones,” Mwamba stated.
Phiri leaves behind a grieving widow and four children to mourn his passing.
By Sharon Zulu
Kalemba August 9, 2025
