Residents block the Mwanza–Musoma highway demanding action against the driver whose truck killed a Std 1 pupil

MWANZA: THE death of a seven-year-old Standard One pupil after being hit by a truck in Kisesa, Magu District, Mwanza Region, has sparked protests, with residents blocking the Mwanza–Musoma highway to demand swift action against the driver.

The accident occurred on the morning of August 13, 2026, in Kisesa Village and Ward, Sanjo Division, Magu District, when a Scania truck, registration number T 885 ENK, owned by Seedco Tanzania Limited, hit the child as he was crossing the road.

Mwanza Regional Police Commander Wilbroad Mtafungwa said the truck was travelling from Mwanza city towards Bariadi and was being driven by Mdamo Nyalwisila, 40, a driver and resident of Bariadi.

Commander Mtafungwa identified the deceased as Prosper Msafiri, a Standard One pupil at Wita Primary School and a resident of Kisesa. He said the child was crossing the road from the right side to the left when he was struck by the truck and died.

According to Commander Mtafungwa, preliminary investigations indicate that the accident was caused by the driver’s negligence and failure to exercise caution while driving through a populated area.

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Following the accident, residents at the scene blocked the highway, disrupting transportation and causing inconvenience to travellers and other road users.

Various government officials arrived at the scene and appealed to residents to remain calm as legal procedures were initiated against the driver. Authorities also agreed to residents’ request for the installation of speed bumps in the area to help reduce vehicle speeds.

However, some residents defied the call for calm and began throwing stones, prompting police to use tear gas to disperse them and restore order.

Commander Mtafungwa said the truck driver had been arrested and was in police custody pending further legal action.