At least 15 die as boat sinks in Zimbabwe’s Lake Kariba

At least 15 people lost their lives when a boat carrying dozens of passengers capsized on Lake Kariba in Zimbabwe, with rescue efforts still underway, officials have disclosed. The vessel, carrying 90 passengers and five crew members, overturned after being struck by a powerful wave, according to police. Footage circulating online shows the submerged hull of the boat.

Lake Kariba, situated on the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia, is one of the world's largest artificial lakes, serving as a crucial waterway for transportation, a vital source of fishing, and a key provider of hydroelectric power to both nations.

The Zimbabwe Civil Protection Unit (CPU) stated that ticket sales indicated 114 adults were aboard the boat. It is possible that an undisclosed number of children below the ticketing age were present as well. So far, 77 passengers have been rescued, and 15 bodies have been recovered. Two funeral homes have been designated to collect the deceased.

Local Member of Parliament Mutsa Murombedzi shared a video on X, claiming it captured the boat during its initial voyage, emphasizing that residents relied on this route to cross the lake to Kariba town, a journey typically taking around five hours.

Murombedzi expressed frustration, questioning the need for accurate information and calling for transparent answers from authorities. Police indicated that additional details would be provided "in due course."