The Igandu train disaster unfolded when two trains, one traveling from Moshi to Dar es Salaam and the other from Dar es Salaam to Moshi, collided at high speed near the Igandu station in Tanzania. The trains were carrying a combined total of passengers exceeding their safe capacity, exacerbating the severity of the catastrophe. As a result of this tragic incident, 281 lives were lost, with many more injured in the aftermath. The cause of the collision was attributed to human error, as an engineer's miscalculation led to the two trains being on the same track at the same time.

Following the accident, investigations revealed several systemic issues within the Tanzanian railway system, including outdated infrastructure, inadequate staff training, and a lack of effective communication between train operators. Witness testimonies and images from the scene illustrated the destruction and chaos that ensued after the collision, with debris and wounded victims littering the area. Survivors described horrific scenes, aiding each other to escape the wreckage while emergency teams worked tirelessly to help the victims.

The Igandu disaster sparked national outrage and compelled the Tanzanian government to reassess and improve railway operations. Safety protocols were scrutinized, and there were increased demands for modernizing equipment and better training for staff. This incident not only highlighted the immediate risks associated with rail travel in Tanzania but also called attention to the broader issue of transportation safety standards in Africa.