Eight years have passed since the tragic Karatu school bus accident in Tanzania, which claimed the lives of 32 students, two teachers, and a driver from Lucky Vincent Primary School. On May 6, 2017, the children were en route to take a mock national exam when their bus veered off a slippery mountain road and plunged into a ravine — a moment that shook the entire nation.
The tragedy drew national mourning, with President John Magufuli declaring a period of remembrance. Vigils and prayers were held across Tanzania. Miraculously, three students — Wilson, Sadia, and Doreen — survived and were flown to the United States for advanced medical treatment, becoming symbols of resilience.
In its aftermath, the disaster ignited nationwide calls for better road safety, improved driver regulations, and safer school transport. While progress has been inconsistent, the memory endures.
Today, at the Karatu memorial, flowers are still laid, and names still spoken. These children are remembered not only for how they died — but for how they lived: with promise, hope, and dreams.
