The South African Local Government Association (SALGA) joins the nation in mourning the tragic loss of 12 learners who lost their lives in a school transport crash in Vanderbijlpark, Sedibeng, on Monday, 19 January 2026. SALGA extends its heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, educators and communities affected by this devastating incident, and wishes a speedy and full recovery to the learners who remain in hospital.

This tragedy has deeply touched the conscience of our country. No parent should ever have to say goodbye to a child in the morning and never see them return home.

The incident is a painful reminder of the critical importance of road safety, responsible transport services, and stringent oversight of learner transport operators. Every child deserves to travel to and from school safely, with the assurance that all reasonable measures are in place to protect their lives.

SALGA’s Chairperson for Public Transport and Roads Working Group, Cllr Sebang Motlhabi says “Our hearts break with every life lost in this tragic incident. As local government leaders, we mourn with the families and communities in the Vaal. This tragedy must strengthen our collective resolve to ensure that the safety of our learners is never compromised.”

SALGA calls on all relevant authorities to accelerate the review and enforcement of scholar transport regulations, strengthen monitoring and accountability mechanisms, and ensure that appropriate support, including psychosocial services, is provided to affected families and schools.

“We honour the memory of the young lives lost by continuing to advocate for safer roads and safer transport for all learners,” Cllr Motlhabi added.