At least 15 killed, 27 missing after overcrowded ferry capsizes in Zimbabwe

An overcrowded ferry on Zimbabwe's Lake Kariba capsized, resulting in at least 15 deaths and 27 people still missing, authorities reported on Wednesday. The vessel, which overturned on Tuesday after colliding with strong waves, was carrying 114 adult passengers, 5 crew members and some children, despite having a capacity for only 90 individuals, according to a statement from Zimbabwe's civil protection unit.

Lake Kariba, situated on the country's border with Zambia, is the world's largest man-made lake by volume and lies more than 300 kilometers northeast of Harare, the nation's capital.

The ferry, which departed as scheduled in suboptimal weather conditions, reportedly encountered a wave that may have caused its engines to cease functioning. A witness named Maxton Kanhema told AFP that the vessel left the port normally, but that a wave may have struck it, resulting in the engines shutting down. Kanhema explained that the Matusado National Park provided a helicopter to aid the rescue operation, alongside larger boats, local divers, and the military.

He stated that people were in distress, with bodies floating in the water and a somber scene to witness. Those who could be saved were successfully rescued, he added.

However, due to the inclement weather, responses were delayed, affecting the overall rescue efforts. Kanhema mentioned that nearly 60 individuals were rescued, and the bodies of those who perished are anticipated to be transported to Kariba for identification. Police indicated that further specifics would be disclosed at a later date.