Kariba ferry death toll rises to 93, making it Zimbabwe's deadliest transport disaster

A ferry disaster on Zimbabwe's Lake Kariba has claimed 93 lives, making it the deadliest transport disaster in the country's history, according to the state-run Herald newspaper. Initially, the toll was reported at 44, but it rose to 84 over the weekend, and to 93 by Tuesday. The ferry, which had a capacity of 90 passengers, was carrying at least 168 people at the time of the accident, likely due to overcrowding with goods.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa declared a state of disaster following the incident, and search and recovery efforts are ongoing, with divers recovering bodies from the scene. Provincial Affairs Minister Marian Chombo stated that 67 people were rescued, but identification of the recovered bodies is proving challenging. Children made up 39 of the victims, and relatives of the deceased are relying on clothes and other items to identify their loved ones, with the need for DNA testing looming.

One survivor mentioned the ferry was overloaded with goods, and life jackets were buried under luggage, with only 30 people managing to put them on. Children were seen screaming, and many passengers were vomiting, but the captain displayed no concern. The community, particularly children, are suffering greatly, with some families losing both parents and other siblings.