The death toll from the catastrophic ferry capsizing on Lake Kariba, Zimbabwe, has tragically risen to 80, following the recovery of eight additional bodies on Sunday, August 16, 2026. This incident is now considered the deadliest ferry accident in Zimbabwe’s history. The overloaded passenger ferry, operated by the government’s Rural Infrastructure Development Agency (RIDA), overturned in turbulent waters on Tuesday, August 11, 2026. Officials reported that the vessel, authorized to carry 90 passengers, was carrying 114 adults, five crew members, and an unspecified number of children, bringing the estimated total aboard to 157. Rescue efforts have so far saved 77 survivors. Most of the victims were villagers and fish traders from the Chalala fishing camp, relying on the ferry as a vital link to the town of Kariba. Hundreds of people gathered at the district hospital in Kariba on Saturday to identify their relatives.
Key Players Involved
- Zimbabwe Republic Police: Confirmed the rising death toll and ongoing recovery efforts.
- Rural Infrastructure Development Agency (RIDA): Operator of the capsized ferry.
- Civil Protection Unit: Reported 77 survivors were rescued.
Event Timeline
- Tuesday, August 11, 2026: The RIDA ferry capsizes on Lake Kariba.
- Wednesday, August 12, 2026: 77 survivors are rescued.
- Saturday, August 15, 2026: Search teams recover 25 bodies, bringing the toll to 72. Hundreds gather to identify relatives.
- Sunday, August 16, 2026: Eight more bodies recovered, raising the confirmed death toll to 80.
