A passenger ferry capsized on Lake Kariba in Zimbabwe on August 11, leaving at least 15 people dead and 27 missing, officials confirmed as rescue operations continue [1, 2, 3, 4].
The ferry, which departed amid bad weather and strong waves, reportedly capsized after being struck by a large wave. The vessel was overloaded, carrying 114 registered adult passengers plus five crew members—exceeding its stated capacity of 90—and possibly an unknown number of children not included in ticket records [1, 3, 4].
Local MP Mutsa Murombedzi expressed concern over passenger numbers, saying, "We have very hard questions that require honest answers. The officials must release the correct number of people who were onboard" [1]. The ferry normally transports people across Lake Kariba between the town of Kariba and nearby islands and fishing camps. Lake Kariba is the world's largest man-made reservoir, straddling the Zimbabwe-Zambia border [1, 3, 4].
Following the capsize, 77 people reached a small island and were rescued, while search teams are still looking for the 27 missing [2, 3, 4]. A witness, Maxton Kanhema, described the scene: "When we were in the waters, then you could see a distress sign and then boats that were close by responded. People were in distress...There were bodies in the water and it was a sad situation to witness. Those that could be rescued were rescued." He noted, "However, due to the bad weather, the responses were a bit late. Getting to the boat took time and unfortunately lives were lost" [3].
Rescue efforts involve speedboats, divers, an underwater search team, and a helicopter, but poor weather has caused delays [3, 4]. Authorities are still reconciling ticket sales with rescue and casualty numbers to confirm the total aboard [1, 4].
The ferry accident occurred on August 11. Rescue operations remain active as the search continues for missing passengers [1, 3, 4].
