The death toll from a ferry disaster on Zimbabwe's Lake Kariba has risen to 93, making it the country's deadliest transport disaster, according to the state-run Herald newspaper. The ferry, which had a capacity for 90 passengers, is estimated to have been carrying at least 168 people when it capsized a week ago after being hit by a strong wave.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa declared a state of disaster following the accident, and divers are continuing search and recovery operations. Lake Kariba, a vast man-made reservoir that straddles the border with Zambia, is a crucial waterway for transportation, fishing, and hydroelectric power for both nations.
The number of fatalities increased significantly over the weekend, rising from 44 at the time of the incident to 84, according to police reports. Divers have since recovered nine more bodies, bringing the official death toll to 93 as of Tuesday, a police statement confirmed. Some of the recovered bodies have been found drifting away from the sinking site, with some reportedly moving towards Zambia, the Herald reported.
Provincial Affairs Minister Marian Chombo stated that 67 people had been rescued. However, she noted the difficulty in identifying some of the recovered bodies, with relatives relying on clothing and personal items for identification. "We are running out of time and DNA may now be needed to assist in the identification process," the minister was quoted as saying by the Herald. Police have identified 83 victims so far, including 39 children.
The ferry served as a vital and affordable transportation link for rural communities. It was reportedly carrying parents taking their children home for school holidays and traders at the time of the accident. One survivor recounted that the ferry was heavily laden with goods and that passengers had voiced concerns about the rough weather conditions. "The life jackets were buried under the luggage, and not more than 30 people managed to get them," said Itayi Marumisa, a trader from Mola village. "Children were screaming and most of the passengers were vomiting, but the captain did not seem to care."
Tight Bhusumani, a local councillor for Mola, described the situation as a difficult time for his community, with particular impact on children. "We have distressing cases where a child lost both parents and other siblings, leaving them as the only surviving member of the family," he stated. The councillor, who lost a child in the accident, added that other families are still awaiting news of their relatives believed to have been on board.