Three family members buried together

In a heartbreaking scene, a family of three – Lorenzo Palu (36), his wife Forgive (31) and their three-year-old son Lwandile – were buried side by side at the Umvutsha Cemetery in Bulawayo yesterday. The family were among the 10 passengers killed in the tragic Mzansi Express bus crash at the Three Mile Circle in Makhado, South Africa, last month.

The atmosphere was full of emotion as little Lwandile was placed in a small coffin between his parents. Family, friends and community members gathered to say goodbye to the trio, who were returning to South Africa after celebrating their fifth wedding anniversary in Bulawayo.

Just days before the tragic accident, Lorenzo had hosted a barbecue with childhood friends where he spoke fondly about the importance of family and marriage. His best friend, Sipho Dube, recalled the moment, calling it a “mini lecture” on love and commitment.

“Lorenzo was a devout Christian but he never judged those of us who did not go to church. He was always full of love and reminded us of the value of family,” said Mr Dube as he stood at his friend's grave. “Every time he came home to Bulawayo, he would call us together for a meeting and was always generous with food and drinks.”

The loss of the family has left Mr Dube and many others speechless and struggling to comprehend the sudden tragedy.

A respected UX designer known for his innovative work in the technology field, Lorenzo was admired both personally and professionally. His wife Forgive was an aspiring entrepreneur who ran Sweet Soul Cakes and also worked as a preschool teacher. Their young son Lwandile, who had a passion for football, brought joy to everyone who knew him.

Hundreds of people attended the emotional farewell ceremony at Umvutsha Cemetery, including members of the Seventh-day Adventist Church (SDA), where a service had been held earlier in Pelandaba. The sight of the three coffins being lowered into the ground at the same time overwhelmed the mourners with grief.

Lorenzo's brother, Kwanele Palu, struggled to contain his pain during the funeral, expressing the unbearable grief of losing three loved ones at once.

“Lorenzo loved his family more than anything. We are still in shock and cannot believe they are gone,” said Mr Palu through tears. “The pain is unbearable. No words can express the sadness we feel at their untimely passing.”

He also thanked the government for its help in repatriating the bodies and providing the coffins.

Forgive's brother, Shepherd Ndlovu, shared his own grief and remembered Lwandile's playful nature and his sister's warm heart.

“My sister was a peacemaker with a big heart and my nephew loved to laugh and play. I will miss her very much,” he said.

As the three were laid to rest, the overwhelming sadness in the crowd was palpable – a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the profound loss of three beloved lives.