At least 38 people have died and 28 others were injured after a passenger bus collided head-on with a minibus and burst into flames in northern Tanzania, the presidency confirmed on Sunday.

The deadly crash occurred late Saturday in the Kilimanjaro region when a tire on the passenger bus reportedly burst, causing the vehicle to swerve into oncoming traffic and slam into a minibus. Both vehicles were quickly engulfed in fire.

According to the official statement, 36 of the bodies recovered were burned beyond recognition. Of the 28 people injured in the crash, 22 have since been discharged from hospital, while six remain under treatment.

President Samia Suluhu Hassan described the incident as a “great tragedy” and extended her condolences to the families of the victims. She also wished the injured a full and swift recovery.

In her message, the president urged drivers across the country to be more vigilant and to strictly observe road safety regulations to prevent further loss of life.