Mr Simon Maketo
By Dickson Bandera
A municipal refuse management worker, Mr. Simon Maketo, has died following a tragic accident while on duty in Manyame Park, the Chitungwiza Municipality confirmed yesterday.
Mr. Maketo, who served under the Refuse Section, reportedly lost his life after being struck by a refuse truck during a routine collection exercise on Wednesday morning.
According to an official funeral announcement, the incident occurred when the refuse truck encountered a stationary commuter omnibus that was obstructing its path. “Mr. Maketo was positioned on the right side of the truck. As the driver attempted to maneuver around the obstruction, Mr. Maketo reportedly panicked, hitting his head against a precast wall before being struck again by the truck,” reads part of the statement.
The impact caused him to lose balance and fall to the ground. He was rushed to St Mary’s Clinic and later transferred to Chitungwiza Central Hospital by a municipal ambulance. Sadly, he was pronounced dead on arrival.
Chitungwiza Mayor Councillor Rosaria Mangoma led tributes to the late employee. “On behalf of councillors, management and the entire staff, we extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time. May the Lord guide and comfort the family during this very difficult period,” she said.
Acting Town Clerk Mr. Japson Nemuseso described the incident as a devastating loss to the municipality and to the refuse collection team in particular. The municipality has pledged to support the bereaved family.
