Zimbabwean authorities have declared a state of disaster following a tragic ferry capsizing on Lake Kariba, which has claimed the lives of at least 44 people. The overloaded ferry, reportedly carrying more than its official capacity of 90 passengers, overturned on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, after encountering strong waves. Survivors recounted desperate pleas to the captain to turn back, which were tragically ignored as water began to flood the vessel.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s declaration of a state of disaster aims to expedite the allocation of resources for the victims and ongoing search and rescue operations. Initial reports suggest that 153 people, including crew and infants, were on board at the time of the incident, significantly exceeding the ferry’s safety limits.
Key Players Involved
- President Emmerson Mnangagwa: Declared a state of disaster to aid victims and facilitate rescue efforts.
- Anyway Chambati: A surviving crew member who reported counting 153 people on board.
- Zimbabwean Authorities: Initiating search and rescue operations and investigating the cause of the capsizing.
Event Timeline
- August 11, 2026: Overloaded ferry capsizes on Lake Kariba.
- August 12, 2026: News breaks, death toll confirmed at 44, President Mnangagwa declares a state of disaster, and survivor accounts emerge.
