Warnings ignored before Lake Kariba ferry disaster that killed 44
Passengers aboard the Mbuya Nehanda ferry say they repeatedly pleaded with its captain to turn back as strong winds and waves battered the overloaded vessel before it capsized on Lake Kariba. At least 44 people died in Tuesday’s disaster, while uncertainty over the number aboard has complicated efforts to account for every passenger.
The ferry was travelling from Kariba towards islands and fishing camps when it overturned in rough conditions. For communities around the lake, the service is an essential connection to markets, medical care and other services in Kariba.
Survivors interviewed by ZBC News said concerns began before departure, when rough water was already visible from the shore.One passenger said travellers warned the crew that conditions appeared unsafe after luggage fell into the water. She alleged that their appeals to postpone the journey were rejected.Conditions reportedly deteriorated after the ferry left shore. Passengers said goods began falling overboard and water entered the vessel as the waves intensified.
About 30 minutes into the journey, another survivor said, passengers again asked the captain to turn back and call for assistance. According to the survivor, he declined and expressed confidence that the ferry would not sink.These accounts have not yet been tested by the official investigation. The captain was among those who died.
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Anyway Chambati, one of two crew members reported to have survived, said passengers raised the alarm when water began entering the engine room. The ferry subsequently overturned, leaving some survivors clinging to its upturned hull and floating cargo until assistance arrived.
The number of people aboard remains disputed. Authorities said the ferry had capacity for 90 passengers. Ticket records accounted for 114 adults and five crew members, but young children reportedly travelled without tickets and were therefore excluded from that count.
Chambati, who said he handled ticketing, estimated that 153 people—including crew members and infants—were aboard. Police have said investigations indicate that the ferry was overloaded. Footage recorded near the departure point and shared by local MP Mutsa Murombedzi shows the vessel leaving shore as people nearby comment on the rough state of the lake. The footage does not, on its own, establish what caused the ferry to capsize.
The tragedy has raised urgent questions about who authorises such journeys, whether weather warnings are available and considered, how passenger limits are enforced as well as other safety measures like enough accessible lifejackets being carried aboard and confirmation of vehicle condition and certifications before departure.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has declared a state of disaster, allowing emergency resources to be directed towards the response and affected families.
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