Omanghana
At least 44 people have been confirmed dead after the ferry Mbuya Nehanda capsized on Lake Kariba during severe weather conditions.
The accident occurred on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, while the vessel was traveling between the town of Kariba and nearby island communities and fishing camps.
Initial reports indicate that the ferry encountered large waves during bad weather, causing it to take on water before overturning. Questions have since emerged about overcrowding and whether the number of passengers contributed to the scale of the disaster.
The vessel reportedly had an official capacity of 90 people. However, ticketing records showed that at least 114 adult passengers and five crew members were aboard. An unknown number of children below the ticketing age were also believed to have been traveling on the ferry.
Crew members and local witnesses estimated that the total number of passengers could have exceeded 150, making it difficult for authorities to establish exactly how many people remain missing.
Rescue teams, fishermen and other local responders saved 77 people. The survivors were initially transported to Long Island on the lake, where they received assistance following the tragedy.
Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa has declared a state of disaster in response to the accident. The declaration has enabled authorities to deploy specialized military divers, helicopters and underwater search-and-rescue teams.
Operations are continuing across the lake as emergency personnel search for missing passengers and attempt to recover more bodies. Difficult weather conditions and uncertainty surrounding the passenger list have complicated the mission.
Authorities are also expected to investigate the ferry’s loading, compliance with safety requirements and the decision to travel despite the poor weather.
The Mbuya Nehanda disaster has renewed concerns about overcrowding, passenger documentation and enforcement of maritime safety regulations on Lake Kariba, where boats provide an essential transportation link for isolated fishing and island communities.
Source: Omanghana
