The government has launched formal investigations into the capsizing of the Rural Infrastructure Development Agency (RIDA) Mbuya Nehanda ferry on Lake Kariba, as search and recovery operations continue following a tragedy that has claimed more than 90 lives.
The ferry capsized on August 11, while reportedly carrying about 180 passengers and goods, a figure that exceeded its carrying capacity, according to preliminary investigations presented to Cabinet.
Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development minister, Senator Monica Mutsvangwa, said the vessel was also struck by strong waves despite an early warning issued by the Meteorological Services Department.
“The government has commenced formal investigations which include examining the structural remains of the vessel and probing operational and compliance issues,” Mutsvangwa said during a post-Cabinet briefing.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has declared the incident a State of Disaster in terms of Section 27(1) of the Civil Protection Act and directed relevant authorities to provide affected families with funeral services, medical assistance and psychosocial support.
The government is providing State-assisted burials through Doves and Nyaradzo Funeral Services, while the Department of Civil Protection continues coordinating search, rescue and recovery operations.
The operations involve the Zimbabwe Republic Police Sub Aqua Unit, Zimbabwe National Army Boat Squadron, local authorities and other stakeholders.
Search efforts have also been intensified through the deployment of a privately owned helicopter from the Matusadona Conservation Trust to assist in locating and recovering victims and debris.
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The government has also urged members of the public and all Lake Kariba users to remain vigilant and immediately report any floating bodies or debris that could assist the recovery teams.
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