Several Feared Dead as RIDA Boat Capsizes on Lake Kariba

Kariba — Several people are feared dead and about 54 others rescued after a Rural Infrastructure Development Agency (RIDA) passenger ferry capsized near Long Island on Lake Kariba in Zimbabwe on Tuesday afternoon, August 11, 2026.

The vessel, identified as the Mbuyanehanda Ferry, also referred to as the Mbuya Nehanda Ferry, was travelling from Kariba Urban to Chalala Fishing Camp via Long Island when it overturned.

Zimbabwe Republic Police confirmed the incident. 

“The ZRP reports that a DDF boat with 90 people and five crew members has capsized in Lake Kariba.

"Rescue efforts are currently underway with more details on the situation to be released in due course," Police Spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi said.

The ferry was reported to have been carrying about 90 passengers in addition to the five crew members.

Water and Inland Department Lake Captain, Adan Nyekete, also confirmed the accident, saying they are still awaiting further details as emergency teams work on the water.

Reports say aqua rescue teams from the Zimbabwe National Army and the police, including the Sub-Aqua Unit, were deployed to the scene. 

The Matusadona Conservation Trust dispatched a helicopter to assist with the aerial search and support.

The ferry that capsized on Lake Kariba.

The district Civil Protection Unit, Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority personnel and local boat operators also joined the effort.

Videos circulating on social media showed passengers in distress in the water after the vessel overturned, with rescuers racing against time to pull survivors to safety.

The exact circumstances that caused the ferry to capsize remain under investigation with preliminary accounts indicating the vessel encountered strong waves or turbulence on the lake.

Lake Kariba is known for sudden weather changes and powerful winds that can create hazardous conditions for vessels.

Long Island lies in the eastern basin of the lake, relatively close to Kariba town.

Ferries and smaller boats regularly operate routes serving fishing camps such as Chalala, Charara and Gache Gache, carrying residents, workers and goods between the urban centre and lakeside communities.

Authorities have in the past repeatedly urged operators and passengers to prioritise safety, respect carrying capacities, wear life jackets and check weather conditions before setting out.

Overloading, sudden storms and vessel maintenance issues have been cited in earlier fatal incidents on the lake.

As of late Tuesday afternoon, search and rescue teams remained active.

Officials indicated that a complete casualty figure and the identities of the deceased would be released once next of kin had been notified and formal processes completed.