Tragic Napier Bus Collision Claims Life of Pregnant Mother and Beloved African Community Leader Olawande Braimoh

36 year old pregnant mum Olawande Braimoh died after being hit by a bus in Napier. The local community remembers her as a joyful and kind leader.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 21, 2026, 3:05 PM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from Stuff

A Sudden Loss on the Streets of Napier

The Napier community is mourning the loss of Olawande Pepetual Braimoh, known affectionately as Wande, following a fatal pedestrian accident on Friday morning. Braimoh was walking to her new place of employment at the Ministry of Social Development when she was struck by a local bus on Tennyson Street. Emergency services attended the scene immediately, where a tent was erected outside the government offices, but the 36 year old woman was pronounced dead at the location.

The Resilience of a Recent Immigrant

Originally from Nigeria, Braimoh had relocated to New Zealand approximately three years ago, establishing a life for her family in Hawke’s Bay. Friends and family describe her as a young woman who was dedicated to doing the right thing and providing for her household. At the time of her passing, she had only been at her new job for a few weeks, representing a fresh chapter for her family that has been abruptly and tragically cut short.

Devotion to Faith and Community Service

Braimoh was a central figure in the African community across New Zealand, known for her active participation in local church life. Initially a member of the Equippers congregation before joining the Baptist Church, she was recognized for her hospitality, frequently inviting community members for lunch following Sunday services. Close friends noted that she was a person who consistently showed up for others with food, prayer, and laughter, serving as a pillar of support for those in need.