Eight years ago, Tanzania faced one of its worst tragedies — the Karatu school bus accident. On May 6, 2017, 32 pupils, two teachers, and a driver from Lucky Vincent Primary School in Arusha died when their bus lost control on a wet mountain road and plunged into a gully. The children were on their way to take a mock national exam, “a proud milestone in their young academic journeys.”

The disaster shocked the nation. News outlets interrupted broadcasts, and President John Magufuli declared national mourning. Vigils and prayers were held across the country as grief united communities.

Amid the sorrow, three survivors — Wilson, Sadia, and Doreen — were found critically injured. Flown to the United States for treatment, their recovery became “a global symbol of resilience.”

The tragedy sparked calls for improved road safety, stricter driver qualifications, and better regulations for school transport. While progress has been mixed, it remains a warning about the dangers of neglect.

At the memorial near Karatu, flowers are still laid, and names are spoken to keep memories alive. These children are remembered not just as victims, but as “students, dreamers, and beloved sons and daughters” whose futures ended too soon.