Overview
- The government-run RIDA ferry overturned on Tuesday after hitting heavy waves, leaving dozens dead and many people still unaccounted for.
- Rescuers have pulled large numbers of bodies from the lake in recent days, with official tallies reported in the high 60s and some outlets reporting up to 72 fatalities as recovery continues.
- Seventy-seven people were rescued from the water, while officials say the vessel was licensed for 90 passengers but left heavily overloaded with at least 114 adults, five crew and an unknown number of children.
- Survivors told reporters the boat began taking on water soon after departure and that passengers begged the captain to turn back, raising questions about crew decisions and available life-saving equipment.
- President Emmerson Mnangagwa declared a state of disaster to mobilize aid and search teams, and authorities have opened formal investigations into passenger lists, maintenance records and operational failures.