Devastating Incident on Lake Kivu
South African Correspondent
At least 78 people have tragically lost their lives following a catastrophic boat accident on Lake Kivu in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The incident unfolded on Thursday in South Kivu province when an overloaded vessel, carrying 278 passengers, capsized while attempting to dock near the port of Kituku.
Governor Jean-Jacques Purusi confirmed that the boat was en route from Minova to Goma in North Kivu province when it suddenly sank just meters from the shore.
“This is a heartbreaking tragedy for our community,” Purusi stated, emphasizing the need for improved safety measures on the water.
Authorities have reported that at least 10 survivors were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment, while many others remain unaccounted for. Eyewitness accounts paint a harrowing picture of the moments leading up to the disaster. Francine Munyi, who witnessed the event, recounted, “The boat started to lose its balance and sank into the lake. Some passengers threw themselves into the water in a desperate attempt to survive.”
In a chilling development, an unverified video surfaced showing the boat tipping sideways before sinking in what appeared to be calm waters, raising questions about the vessel’s condition and safety protocols.
Community Grief and Loss
The tragedy has left families and locals in shock and mourning. Among them is Bienfait Sematumba, a 27-year-old who shared the painful news of losing four family members in the accident.
“I can’t believe this has happened. We were all together just days ago,” he lamented, reflecting the deep sense of loss felt by many.
Unfortunately, such maritime accidents are not uncommon in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where overcrowding and overloading on boats are persistent issues. The country’s limited road infrastructure outside major towns forces many to rely on these water vessels, often at great risk.
Earlier this year, another overloaded boat sank near the capital, Kinshasa, claiming the lives of 80 passengers. In 2019, a similar tragedy on Lake Kivu resulted in approximately 150 deaths. These incidents highlight the urgent need for regulatory reforms and enhanced safety measures to prevent future disasters.
As the community grapples with this latest tragedy, calls for accountability and improved safety standards are growing louder.
“We must ensure that such a tragedy never happens again,” Governor Purusi urged, as the search for the missing continues and families await news of their loved ones.
Zim GBC News©2024