ZIMBABWE FERRY DISASTER DEATH TOLL RISES TO 93

The death toll from a ferry disaster on Lake Kariba in Zimbabwe has risen to 93, making it the country's deadliest transport disaster on record. The ferry capsized during high winds a week ago while travelling from the town of Kariba in the north to rural and fishing communities in the north west. According to one report, the state-run Herald newspaper estimates that at least 168 people were on board, despite the ferry's stated capacity of 90 passengers. A police statement on Tuesday confirmed 93 deaths, with nine additional bodies recovered by divers in recent days, some drifting towards Zambia.

The initial death toll of 44 increased to 84 over the weekend as recovery efforts continued. Provincial Affairs Minister Marian Chombo said 67 people had been rescued following the sinking. Police reported that 83 of the victims had been identified so far, 39 of whom were children, though one account noted at least 18 children among the dead. Identification efforts have proved difficult, with relatives relying on clothing and personal items, and authorities indicating DNA testing may now be required. The ferry was carrying parents taking children home for school holidays and traders; travel by boat is common in the region owing to limited public transport and poorly maintained roads.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa declared a state of disaster following the accident. Police have deployed four boats and more than 40 divers to search for remaining victims, with authorities stating that all bodies are expected eventually to surface. The lake, which straddles the border with Zambia, is one of the world's largest man-made reservoirs and provides vital hydroelectric power to both countries. President Mnangagwa described the incident as "tragic" and said it exposed serious deficiencies requiring immediate attention.