| Sidama truck crash | |
|---|---|
 | |
  | |
| Details | |
| Date | 29 December 2024 c. 5:30 p.m.EAT |
| Location | Bona Zuria,Sidama Region,Ethiopia |
| Coordinates | 6°31′12.05″N38°44′4.79″E / 6.5200139°N 38.7346639°E /6.5200139; 38.7346639 |
| Cause | Under investigation |
| Statistics | |
| Deaths | 71 |
| Injured | 4 |
On 29 December 2024, a truck carrying passengers lost control while crossing the Gelana Bridge inBona Zuria,Sidama Region, Ethiopia and fell into theGanale Doria River[citation needed] killing 71 people, with four survivors requiring hospital treatment.[1][2]
With an estimated 26.7 annual road deaths per 100,000 people, road crashes are common in Ethiopia, Africa's second-most populous nation. According to theUnited Nations, Ethiopian roads and traffic are poorly regulated.[3][4]
The crash took place on the Gelana Bridge in the Eastern Zone of Sidama Region, approximately 300 kilometers (180 miles) south of Ethiopia's capital,Addis Ababa.[1][5]
Initial reports from the Sidama Regional Health Bureau and zone administrator Mate Mengesha indicated that a truck carrying dozens of passengers lost control and fell into the Ganale Doria River. Sixty-eight men and three women died. He said several victims were returning from a coffee worksite and from a wedding. Four survivors were seriously injured and were treated at the Bona General Hospital, with one requiring advanced treatment and transfer to the Hawassa Referral Hospital.[1][5]
