44 Confirmed Dead After Overloaded Ferry Capsizes on Zimbabwe’s Lake Kariba

POLICY WIRE — Harare, Zimbabwe — At least 44 people are confirmed dead after an overloaded ferry capsized on Zimbabwe’s Lake Kariba. The vessel, believed to be carrying 114 passengers and five crew members, encountered difficulties mid-journey.

Rescue operations are ongoing, with local authorities and emergency services working to recover the remaining passengers. The exact cause of the capsizing is under investigation, though initial reports suggest severe overloading contributed to the disaster.

Witnesses reported seeing the ferry listing heavily before it overturned. Survivors clung to debris as rescue teams arrived on the scene. The ferry was reportedly en route from Kariba town to the Nyaminyami area when the incident occurred.

Zimbabwe’s Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister, Joel Matiza, has issued a statement expressing deep regret over the incident. “This is a tragic event, and our hearts go out to the families affected. We are committed to a thorough investigation to determine the exact cause and prevent future occurrences,” Matiza said.

The Lake Kariba ferry service is a critical transport link for communities around the lake, often serving as the primary means of crossing the vast water body. However, safety concerns have been raised in the past regarding the condition and capacity of the ferries operating on the lake.

This incident underscores the need for stringent safety regulations and enforcement in Zimbabwe’s maritime transport sector. Authorities are expected to review current safety protocols and implement measures to enhance passenger safety on all ferry services.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)