KARIBA – At least 13 people have died and 67 others have been rescued following the sinking of a Rural Infrastructure Development Agency (RIDA) boat on Lake Kariba, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has confirmed.
The accident, which occurred on the afternoon of August 11, 2026, has triggered a major search and recovery operation, with authorities still working to establish the exact number of people who were aboard the vessel.
National Police Spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the rescued survivors had been taken to the Mahombe-kombe Primary School Command Centre for medical attention and further assistance, while the search for those still missing continues.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms that 13 bodies have been retrieved from Lake Kariba while 67 victims have been rescued and taken to Mahombe-kombe Primary School Command Centre for medical attention and further management. Meanwhile, the search process is still underway for the missing victims,” Nyathi said.
The tragedy has also raised concerns over possible overcrowding. Police said the boat has a confirmed carrying capacity of 90 passengers, excluding the five crew members.
According to the police, information initially provided to the lake captain indicated that 120 people were travelling from Kariba to Chalala, comprising 108 adults and 12 children.
However, investigations have since indicated that the actual number of people aboard the vessel could have been higher.
“Initially, the information availed to the lake captain indicated that the boat had 120 people who were going to Chalala from Kariba (108 adults and 12 children). However, police investigations indicate that the boat could have been carrying more people,” the statement said.
Police are continuing to verify the passenger numbers and are contacting relatives as part of efforts to establish the identities of those rescued, deceased and still missing.
“More details will be availed as relatives are contacted while the search process continues,” Nyathi said.