The tragic Lake Kariba ferry disaster in Zimbabwe has seen its death toll climb to 72, following the recovery of an additional 26 bodies in the last few hours. The overloaded vessel, operated by the Rural Agency for Infrastructure Development, capsized last Wednesday near Long Island while traversing the route between Kariba and Chalala.
In response to the devastating incident, President Emmerson Mnangagwa has officially declared a ‘state of disaster’ across the nation. Zimbabwean police confirmed the updated figures, noting that the previous toll of 46 deceased has now been significantly surpassed.
At the time of the accident, 153 people were reportedly on board, and search and rescue operations are continuing as some occupants remain missing. The Civil Protection Department has activated a national search and rescue effort, including the deployment of a helicopter to aid in the recovery mission.
Key Players Involved
- President Emmerson Mnangagwa: Declared a national ‘state of disaster’ and acknowledged safety deficiencies.
- Zimbabwean Police: Confirmed the updated death toll and ongoing recovery efforts.
- Civil Protection Department: Activated a national search and rescue effort, deploying a helicopter.
- Rural Agency for Infrastructure Development: Operator of the capsized ferry.
Event Timeline
- Last Wednesday: Overloaded ferry capsized on Lake Kariba.
- August 13, 2026: Initial reports of the disaster, President Mnangagwa sends condolences to families of 44 people who died.
- August 16, 2026: Death toll tragically rises to 72 with more bodies recovered; President Mnangagwa declares a state of disaster.
