The tragic Lake Kariba ferry disaster in Zimbabwe has seen its death toll climb to 72, with more bodies being retrieved from the capsized vessel. President Emmerson Mnangagwa has officially declared a state of disaster following the incident, which occurred when an overloaded ferry capsized on Lake Kariba. The vessel, operated by the Rural Agency for Infrastructure Development, was traveling between Kariba and Chalala when it was struck by strong waves near Long Island. At the time of the accident, 153 people were reportedly on board, and search and rescue operations are ongoing for those still missing. The Civil Protection Department has activated a national search and rescue device, mobilizing a helicopter to support efforts in the affected area.
Key Players Involved
- President Emmerson Mnangagwa: Declared a national state of disaster, acknowledging safety deficiencies.
- Zimbabwe National Police (Commissioner Paul Nyathi): Confirmed the rising death toll, with an additional 26 bodies recovered.
- Rural Agency for Infrastructure Development: Operator of the capsized ferry.
Event Timeline
- Wednesday, August 12, 2026: Ferry capsizes on Lake Kariba.
- August 15, 2026: Death toll initially reported at 46, then rising to 68.
- August 16, 2026: Death toll rises to 72; President Mnangagwa declares a state of disaster.
