Ignatius Chiome, the 49-year-old District Coordinator for the Kariba Rural Infrastructure Development Agency (RIDA), has been arrested and charged with culpable homicide in connection with the tragic Lake Kariba ferry disaster. The incident, which occurred on August 11, saw the RIDA-operated Mbuya Nehanda ferry capsize while en route from Kariba to Chalala, resulting in the deaths of 97 people.
Chiome appeared in court and has been remanded in custody as investigations continue into what has been described as Zimbabwe’s deadliest recorded maritime accident. The ferry reportedly capsized after encountering severe weather conditions on the lake, prompting a large-scale search-and-rescue operation involving police, local boat operators, and other emergency response teams.
Key Players Involved
- Ignatius Chiome: Kariba Rural Infrastructure Development Agency (RIDA) District Coordinator, charged with culpable homicide.
- 97 Victims: Individuals who lost their lives in the Lake Kariba ferry disaster.
- RIDA: Operator of the Mbuya Nehanda ferry.
Event Timeline
- August 11, 2026: Mbuya Nehanda ferry capsizes on Lake Kariba.
- August 27, 2026: Ignatius Chiome arrested and charged with culpable homicide.
- August 28, 2026: Chiome remanded in custody as investigations proceed.
