At least 15 dead and 27 missing after ferry capsizes in Zimbabwe

A ferry incident on Lake Kariba in Zimbabwe has resulted in at least 15 confirmed fatalities, with 27 individuals reported missing, according to official sources. The ferry, named 'Mbuya Nehanda', capsized on Monday afternoon after being struck by a large wave, as reported by Zimbabwean authorities.

The vessel was reportedly overloaded, carrying more passengers than its intended capacity of 90 people. Current estimates indicate that at least 114 adults were on board, in addition to five crew members. Reports also suggest that there may have been an unknown number of young children present, who typically do not require tickets.

Rescue efforts are ongoing, with local officials actively searching for those missing. The situation has prompted a response from Zimbabwe's Civil Protection Unit, which has confirmed the details of the incident and the number of casualties.

Authorities have indicated that the actual number of people who may have been aboard the Mbuya Nehanda could exceed the recorded ticket sales, highlighting potential safety oversights regarding passenger limits and boat operations.

Witnesses reported panic as the ferry began to overturn in the water. The tragic accident has drawn attention to safety regulations for ferries operating in the region, as there have been concerns over the handling of boating safety amid weather conditions around Lake Kariba.

Reacting to the incident, officials are calling for a review of ferry safety protocols to prevent similar occurrences in the future. The search for the missing individuals continues, and relatives of those onboard are gathering at the site, awaiting further news.