By Celani Sikhakhane
- Nomalanga Ndawonde, a Grade 9 learner at Zibukezulu High School, died on Friday at iNkosi Albert Luthuli Hospital from her injuries.
- The crash happened when a taxi’s brakes failed on T22 Road, veered off the street and crashed into Senzokuhle Pre-School in Imbali.
A fifth learner has died after last week’s taxi crash in Imbali, Pietermaritzburg.
Grade 9 learner Nomalanga Ndawonde, 15, from Zibukezulu High School, passed away early on Friday morning at iNkosi Albert Luthuli Hospital in Durban. She had been treated for severe head injuries since the accident.
The crash happened when a Toyota Siyaya taxi transporting learners lost its brakes while descending T22 Road in Unit 18, Imbali. The taxi veered off the road, hit a tree and crashed into Senzokuhle Pre-School.
KZN MEC for Transport Siboniso Duma said Nomalanga was given the best possible care but did not survive.
“We were hoping she would recover and return to her classmates. Sadly, she has left us,” said Duma. He added that officials have been sent to support the Ndawonde family.
Nomalanga is the fifth learner to die from the crash. The other victims were Mthokozisi Khambule, Luthando Zaca, Omphile Mbhense and Zanokuhle Notha.
Three of the learners have already been buried. Mthokozisi Khambule will be laid to rest on Saturday.
The provincial government says it is working together with schools, religious leaders and councillors to support the affected families.
Pictured above: Grade 9 learner Nomalanga Ndawonde, the fifth victim of the Imbali taxi crash.
Image source: Family
