Zimbabwe to Investigate Kariba Boat Disaster as Death Toll Rises
The death toll from the Lake Kariba boat disaster has risen to 80 after eight more bodies were recovered, according to the Zimbabwe Republic Police.
The Rural Infrastructure Development Agency (RIDA) vessel, Mbuya Nehanda, capsized on August 11 while travelling to remote communities. It was reportedly carrying far more passengers than its stated capacity of 90. At least 67 people survived the accident. Search and recovery operations continue for those still missing.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has declared the tragedy a national disaster. Transport Minister Felix Mhona has said that an investigation will examine issues including vessel capacity, safety regulations and emergency preparedness to determine the causes of one of Zimbabwe’s deadliest boating accidents.
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![A Photo of a Kapenta Rig on lake Kariba on the Zimbabwe/Zambia border (file photo).]()
According to an official report, the boat was severely overloaded at the time of the accident.
So far, 77 passengers have been rescued by Matusadonha rescue teams and other responders. The survivors are currently on Long Island on the lake.
The Kariba ferry that capsized.
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