South African Correspondent
Tragedy struck on Thursday morning as at least 20 bodies were recovered from Lake Kivu in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo after a ferry capsized just a few hundred meters from its destination in Goma.
The ill-fated vessel was en route from Minova in South Kivu when it sank, creating a scene of chaos and despair.
A video that has surfaced online captures the harrowing moment the boat tilted precariously to one side before sinking beneath the water. Eyewitnesses have reported that the ferry may have been carrying as many as 200 people, but the exact number remains uncertain.
Several survivors recounted their experiences to Reuters, highlighting the overcrowded conditions on board.
According to a local migration authority quoted by Reuters, approximately 45 males and 35 females were officially registered as passengers. However, the ages of these individuals have yet to be verified. The uncertainty surrounding the total number of passengers raises concerns about the scale of this disaster.
Local activist Aaron Ashuza, who was present at the shore during the rescue efforts, shared his observations with the BBC.
“I saw bodies being pulled out of the water, and the injured were quickly taken to the hospital,” he said, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
Tragically, at least two children succumbed to their injuries after being transported to medical facilities, as reported by AFP.
Accidents of this nature are unfortunately common in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where boats are often overcrowded and safety measures are lacking. Passengers frequently travel without life jackets, and many do not know how to swim, which significantly increases the risks associated with such journeys.
The complexity of rescue operations is further compounded by the absence of passenger manifests on many vessels, making it difficult for authorities to account for everyone on board. This situation underscores the need for improved safety regulations and enforcement in the region’s maritime transport.
As the search for additional victims continues, this tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by those relying on overcrowded ferries for transportation in DR Congo. It raises critical questions about the safety standards and regulations governing maritime travel in the country, which require urgent attention to prevent further loss of life.
Zim GBC News©2024