Zimbabwe ferry disaster on Lake Kariba leaves at least 15 dead, dozens unaccounted for

Rescue teams are scouring the waters of Lake

Rescue teams are scouring the waters of Lake Kariba after a passenger ferry capsized, killing at least 15 people and leaving dozens missing in what authorities describe as a tragic case of severe overloading.

The vessel, officially licensed to carry 90 passengers, was transporting 114 adults along with five crew members and an unspecified number of children when it went down, according to Zimbabwe’s Civil Protection Unit. The exact number of children aboard remains unclear, complicating efforts to establish a full casualty list.

Witnesses reported that strong waves struck the ferry, causing it to overturn suddenly in the vast expanse of the world’s largest human-made lake. Emergency operations are currently under way, with divers and local boats searching for survivors, though hopes are fading as hours pass.

Authorities have launched an investigation into the trag…

Authorities have launched an investigation into the tragedy, focusing on how the vessel was allowed to depart despite exceeding its capacity by nearly a third. Local officials have vowed to tighten safety regulations for water transport in the region, which is a vital artery for communities and tourism alike.

The incident has cast a pall over the Kariba area, a popular destination known for its wildlife and fishing, as families await news of missing loved ones. The government has pledged support for the victims’ relatives, while rescue efforts continue into the night.