Tragic Ferry Capsize on Lake Kariba Claims Lives in Zimbabwe

A devastating ferry accident on Lake Kariba in Zimbabwe has led to the loss of at least 15 lives, with 27 individuals still unaccounted for. The overloaded vessel capsized, prompting a large-scale rescue operation. While 77 survivors were rescued and taken to a nearby island, concerns remain about the safety of the ferry service, which is vital for local communities. The incident has raised questions about safety regulations and the ferry's capacity, as it was designed to hold fewer passengers than were onboard. As rescue efforts continue, the tragedy highlights the risks faced by those relying on this mode of transport.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 12, 2026, 17:33 IST

Ferry Disaster on Lake Kariba

Photo: @ManyoniZW/X

Harare, Aug 12: A tragic incident occurred when an overloaded ferry capsized on Lake Kariba in Zimbabwe, resulting in the deaths of at least 15 individuals, with 27 others reported missing, according to the national disaster management agency. A total of 77 people were successfully rescued and transported to a nearby island, with efforts underway to return them to safety.

State broadcaster ZBC shared footage showing speedboats approaching what seemed to be the overturned vessel, while a helicopter circled above. An underwater search and rescue team has been dispatched to the expansive lake, which serves as part of the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia.

The Civil Protection Unit of Zimbabwe confirmed that ticket sales indicated 114 adult passengers were aboard, in addition to five crew members. There may have been additional children who were not accounted for due to their age, as they did not require tickets.

According to the agency, the ferry was designed to carry a maximum of 90 passengers, and they have recommended that the incident be officially classified as a disaster.

Mutsa Murombedzi, a local MP, shared a video showing individuals on the shore bidding farewell to what appeared to be the aging ferry as it departed. She noted that rural residents rely on this ferry for travel to the town of Kariba, a journey that typically lasts around five hours.

Concerns were raised by onlookers about the ferry's ability to withstand the lake's strong waves, as depicted in the video.

Earlier reports from Zimbabwean police indicated that a rescue operation was in progress, although further details were not provided.

Lake Kariba, recognized as the largest man-made lake by volume globally, was formed in the late 1950s and early 1960s by constructing a dam wall to obstruct the Zambezi River, leading to the gradual filling of a valley with water. The lake stretches over 200 km in length and reaches widths of up to 40 km in certain areas.

The lake is jointly shared by Zimbabwe and Zambia, with the official border situated in its center.