Tragic Ferry Disaster on Zimbabwe's Lake Kariba Claims 44 Lives

Aug 12, 2026

75 min

Aug 12, 2026 14:30

44 lives lost after ferry capsizes on Zimbabwe's Lake Kariba

## Overcrowded Ferry Capsizes

A tragic incident occurred on Lake Kariba in Zimbabwe when an overcrowded government ferry capsized, resulting in the loss of at least 44 lives. The disaster took place on August 11, 2026, amid rough weather conditions.

## Details of the Incident

The ferry, operated by the Rural Infrastructure Development Agency (RIDA), was carrying 114 adult passengers, five crew members, and an unspecified number of children. It was intended to transport people between the town of Kariba and nearby islands and fishing villages. However, the vessel exceeded its capacity of 90 people.

## Rescue Efforts

Rescue operations were quickly initiated, with 77 individuals being saved and 15 bodies initially recovered. The Zimbabwe Republic Police later confirmed the death toll had risen to 44. Efforts to locate any missing persons continue, with assistance from local divers, the army, and a national park helicopter.

## Witness Accounts

Witness Maxton Kanhema reported that the ferry departed in poor weather and may have been struck by a wave, causing its engines to fail. Nearby boats responded to distress signals, aiding in the rescue of survivors.

## Ongoing Search

A specialized aquatic rescue unit has been deployed to assist in the search for any remaining unaccounted individuals. The survivors have been taken to Long Island, located in the middle of the lake.

This incident marks one of the most severe passenger boat disasters on Lake Kariba, which is the world's largest man-made lake by volume, situated on the border with Zambia.

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