Karabo Ramathe
Two South African tourists tragically lost their lives and several others were injured in a road accident last Saturday near Ha Piti village, along the Moteng Pass, the Lesotho Tourism Development Corporation (LTDC) announced in a statement on Sunday.
According to LTDC, the incident occurred when a sprinter minibus transporting 20 people from the Afriski Mountain Resort reportedly lost control while attempting to avoid cattle on the road, causing the vehicle to overturn.
“The incident is currently under investigation by the Lesotho Mounted Police Service (LMPS) in the Botha-Bothe district,” read the LTDC statement.
Two of the tourists sustained minor injuries and were treated at Botha-Bothe Government Hospital before being discharged. Two others with more serious injuries were transferred to Bethlehem Hospital in South Africa; one has since been discharged while the other remains hospitalised.
“Tragically, two female South African tourists lost their lives in the accident. The Government of Lesotho and LTDC extend their deepest condolences to the bereaved families and wish a speedy recovery to those who were injured,” LTDC said.
The LTDC reaffirmed its commitment to the safety of all visitors, noting that the country has embarked on a national tourist safety campaign to strengthen existing efforts.
“The safety and well-being of tourists remain a top priority for Lesotho, as tourism is recognised as a vital sector for national development,” the statement emphasised.
“While accidents are sometimes unavoidable, we await the findings of the ongoing investigation to determine the precise cause of the accident and to bring closure to the affected families.”
“On behalf of the Government of Lesotho, LTDC, and the wider tourism community, we once again express our sincere condolences to the families and friends of the deceased. Our thoughts are also with those recovering from this tragic incident.”
As the investigation continues, the LTDC urged drivers and tour operators to exercise extreme caution, particularly when navigating Lesotho’s challenging mountainous terrain.
“We further appeal to all tour operators and drivers to remain vigilant at all times and to always factor in the varying road conditions found across the country,” it added.
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