The death toll from the Lake Kariba ferry disaster in Zimbabwe has tragically risen to 72, as authorities continue their search for more victims. On Saturday, rescuers retrieved an additional 25 bodies, bringing the total number of fatalities to 72 following the capsizing of an overloaded passenger ferry earlier this week.
The vessel, operated by the government’s Rural Infrastructure Development Agency (RIDA), overturned in choppy waters on Tuesday. This incident is now considered the country’s deadliest maritime disaster. Police confirmed the recovery of three more bodies late on August 15, 2026, pushing the count to 72. President Mnangagwa has acknowledged “serious deficiencies” in maritime safety in the wake of the tragedy.
Key Players Involved
- Zimbabwean Authorities: Leading the search and recovery operations.
- Rural Infrastructure Development Agency (RIDA): Operator of the capsized ferry.
- President Mnangagwa: Acknowledged maritime safety deficiencies.
Event Timeline
- Tuesday, August 11, 2026: Overloaded RIDA ferry capsizes on Lake Kariba.
- Saturday, August 15, 2026: 25 bodies recovered, bringing the death toll to 72.
- Sunday, August 16, 2026: Search operations continue as the death toll stands at 72.
