Organisations unite in prayer and support for victims of the Vaal scholar transport accident

The South African Community of Faith-Based Freternals and Federations (SACOFF) has called on churches to hold prayers, offer practical assistance to the families affected by the Sebokeng accident that cost the lives of 14 learners, and stand as “voices for justice, accountability, and safer communities”.

The Pretoria-based federation of churches and other faith-based organisations from across the country urged South Africans in a statement of Thursday to come together – “not in blame, but in responsibility, not in silence, but in action”.

SACOFF President, Pastor Bert Pretorius, said: “I am deeply gutted by the devastation of this tragic accident that has claimed the lives of children from our community while they were on their way to school. The pain is raw and overwhelming, and we grieve alongside these families.

“Two days ago, we visited the families in their homes together with the Minister of Basic  Education, Ms Siviwe Gwarube, Premier Panyaza Lesufi, and other civil leaders. Our hearts are with these families — please keep them in your prayers.” 

SACOFF said, together with its disaster relief partner, the Mahlasedi Foundation, it has been actively present in the affected communities since the tragedy occurred. It said over the past two days, Mahlasedi teams have worked day and night offering counselling, prayer and emotional support to the grieving families. It also offered practical assistance, including food parcels and other essential supplies.

Practical Assistance

“I am profoundly grateful to the Mahlasedi Foundation team who have worked tirelessly over the past two days, offering counselling, prayer, and practical support. We also acknowledge the strong presence and responsiveness of government leadership, who have truly stepped in to help during this painful time,” said Pretorius.

The driver of the minibus involved in the accident, Ayanda “Biggie” Dludla, appeared in the Vanderbijlpark Magistrate's Court on Thursday.

Initially facing 12 counts of culpable homicide, Dludla’s charges were upgraded to 14 counts of murder and three counts of attempted murder. 

He is also charged with driving without a valid professional driving permit (PrDP) and operating an unlicensed vehicle. His PrDP is reported to have expired in November last year.

The case has been postponed until February 5, 2026.