Zimbabwe: Kariba ferry death toll rises to 93

A tragic ferry accident on Zimbabwe's Lake Kariba has claimed 93 lives, now the country's deadliest transport disaster, according to state-run newspaper Herald. The vessel, with a capacity for 90 passengers, was likely carrying at least 168 people when it overturned due to a strong wave a week ago. President Emmerson Mnangagwa declared a state of disaster, and divers are continuing search and recovery efforts. The lake, shared with Zambia, supports transport, fishing, and hydroelectric power for both nations.

The death toll rose from 44 to 84 over the weekend, and further 9 bodies were found by divers, bringing the total to 93, as stated in a police report on Tuesday. Divers are now recovering bodies further from the sinking site, some drifting towards Zambia. Provincial Affairs Minister Marian Chombo reported 67 rescues, but noted difficulties in identifying some of the recovered bodies, urging relatives to rely on clothes and items for identification.

Police confirmed 83 victims were identified, 39 of them children. The ferry was carrying families returning home for school holidays and traders, overloaded with goods and passengers. One survivor, Itayi Marumisa, expressed concerns about the overloaded ferry and the captain's apparent indifference. Tight Bhusumani, a local councillor, described the distressing cases of children losing both parents and other siblings.

The community is grappling with the impact of the tragedy, with many families still awaiting news of their loved ones.