Death toll rises in Zimbabwe ferry disaster on Lake Kariba

The death toll from a ferry disaster on Lake Kariba in Zimbabwe has risen to 84, following the recovery of additional bodies over the weekend. The vessel, operated by the Rural Infrastructure Development Agency (RIDA), capsized on August 11 during strong winds. While sources initially provided conflicting reports regarding the exact date of the accident—citing either Tuesday or Wednesday—authorities have confirmed the tragedy occurred in the waters bordering Zimbabwe and Zambia.

The ferry was significantly overcrowded at the time of the incident. Official records indicate the ship had a maximum capacity of 90 passengers, but was carrying 114 adults, five crew members, and an unspecified number of children. Civil protection officials reported that 77 individuals were rescued on the day of the disaster. Many of the passengers were local villagers and fish traders.

Search and rescue operations remain ongoing as authorities continue to look for missing victims. This event is considered one of the deadliest maritime accidents in the history of the country. Officials are investigating the circumstances surrounding the overcrowding and the structural failure of the vessel during the storm.