Zimbabwe Ferry Capsizing Death Toll Hits 68

The death toll from a government-operated passenger ferry that capsized on Lake Kariba rose to 68 on Saturday after search teams recovered 22 more bodies.

The overloaded boat, managed by Zimbabwe’s Rural Infrastructure Development Agency (RIDA), overturned in rough waters on Tuesday.

Authorities confirmed that the vessel mainly carried local villagers and fish traders travelling along the border region between Zimbabwe and Zambia.

Death Toll from Zimbabwe Boat Capsize Hits 44

Police disclosed that the boat carried 114 adults, five crew members, and several children, far exceeding its authorised limit of 90 passengers.

Emergency responders saved 77 survivors following the accident, while dozens of grieving relatives gathered in the lakeside town of Kariba on Thursday for a joint funeral service.

Zimbabwe ferry capsizing death toll hits 68 (News Central TV) — Zimbabwe ferry capsizing death toll hits 68. Credit: Reuters

Survivors reported that they begged the ferry operator to return to shore after the vessel began taking on water shortly after departure. Still, the driver pushed forward into the choppy lake.

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Abisoye Adeyiga

Abisoye Adedoyin Adeyiga holds a PhD in Languages and Media Studies and a Master’s in Education (English Language). Trained in digital marketing and investigative journalism, she is passionate about new media’s transformative power. She enjoys reading, traveling, and meaningful conversations.