20 years ago, the nation was plunged into unexpected mourning after a horrific road accident claimed the lives of 45 pupils from Kawambwa Boys Secondary School.
Now, two decades later, former pupils under the Ex-Kawambwa Boys Secondary School Association (KABOTESSA) are calling for the construction of a mausoleum to honour the young lives lost.
The accident, which occurred on April 8, 2005, near the treacherous Ntumbachushi Hills in Kawambwa, remains one of the darkest days in Zambia’s education history.
A truck carrying more than 100 pupils overturned as they travelled home at the close of the school term.
Overloaded and reportedly speeding, the truck failed to negotiate a steep curve, throwing students into the valley below.
43 died on the spot, with two more succumbing to injuries later in hospital.
In an interview with Kalemba, KABOTESSA Secretary General Godfrey Chikumbi stated that the association was lobbying for the construction of a mausoleum at the burial site to serve as a lasting memorial.
“We have 45 graves and nothing to show for the children who were once full of dreams. These were not just pupils, they were sons, brothers and future leaders. We owe it to them and their families to preserve their memory,” said Chikumbi.
The pupils were buried in a mass grave in Kawambwa and the accident was so severe that then President, Levy Mwanawasa declared a day of national mourning.
However, Chikumbi revealed that the site has since been neglected and the pain lingers on for both survivors and the bereaved families.
“We want the Road Transport and Safety Agency (RTSA) and the government to take part in this initiative and to prevent such a tragedy from happening again.”
“April 8 must be recognised as Kawambwa Day, a day of national traffic awareness,” he urged.
As the country opens schools this term, the association has also renewed calls for a dedicated school bus to prevent pupils from relying on unsafe transport options.
KABOTESSA has since launched a fundraising campaign for the mausoleum and is appealing to all former pupils, well wishers and the general public to donate any amount towards the construction of the mausoleum.
“How many more lives must we lose before student safety is taken seriously? If we had a school bus back then, we would not be here talking about 45 graves.”
“This is a project for healing, remembrance and dignity. Let us build this mausoleum together. Let us honour our brothers who never made it home,” he said.
By Catherine Pule
Kalemba, May 13, 2025
