Passenger ship capsizes on Lake Kariba in Zimbabwe

On Tuesday, August 11, 2026, the vessel Mbuya Nehanda capsized on Lake Kariba, Zimbabwe, while traveling between the town of Kariba and various islands and fishing villages. While initial police reports mentioned 95 people on board, the Civil Protection Unit (CPU) later clarified that the ship was carrying 114 adult passengers, an unspecified number of children, and a five-member crew. According to survivors, the vessel was struck by a large wave during inclement weather, which disabled the engine and caused the ship to overturn.

Rescue operations are currently ongoing, with divers facing significant challenges due to poor weather conditions. Officials have confirmed that 77 individuals have been rescued and 15 fatalities have been recovered from the lake. Authorities report that at least 27 people remain missing. Nearby vessels and personnel from the Matusadona National Park responded to distress signals to assist with the recovery effort. Investigations into the exact sequence of events and the safety protocols followed prior to departure are expected to continue as rescue teams persist in searching for the missing passengers.