44 dead in Zimbabwe ferry disaster: Ramaphosa offers condolences

President Cyril Ramaphosa has conveyed his deepest condolences to the Government and people of Zimbabwe following a tragic ferry accident on Lake Kariba on August 11. The disaster resulted in 44 deaths and left 27 individuals missing. The overcrowded ferry, which overturned after colliding with strong waves, was carrying 114 adult passengers, five crew members, and some children despite having a capacity for only 90 people.

Zimbabwe's Civil Protection Unit reported that 77 passengers were successfully rescued. The search for the missing continues, with Lake Kariba situated on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia, approximately 300 kilometers northeast of Harare, the capital city.

South African President Ramaphosa expressed his sympathies to the affected nation, extending his thoughts to the survivors and families awaiting news of the ongoing rescue operations. He emphasized that South Africans stand in solidarity with Zimbabwe as they mourn the extensive loss of life and pay tribute to the emergency services working relentlessly to support and bring closure to the affected communities.

Witnesses reported that the ferry left as scheduled in adverse weather conditions. A distress signal was raised when a wave struck the boat, causing its engines to shut down. Local witnesses noted that Matusado National Park provided a helicopter, along with larger boats and divers from the area and the army, to aid in the rescue effort. Rescue operations were hampered by the challenging weather conditions, contributing to the fatalities.

According to a witness, almost 60 people were rescued, and the remains of the deceased are expected to be taken to Kariba for identification. Authorities have stated that further details will be released as the investigation progresses.