Harare, September 8, 2026 – The government has announced a multi-pronged relief and recovery plan for the communities devastated by the Lake Kariba ferry disaster, as pressure mounts for an independent investigation into the tragedy that claimed 97 lives.
Presenting the measures on behalf of Vice President Kembo Mohadi, Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe said the response would focus on humanitarian relief, recovery and resilience building, infrastructure development, and community training in disaster risk reduction.
Key interventions include deploying mental health specialists to affected areas, providing emergency supplies, protecting children, and promoting education. The government will also support economic recovery through vocational training and the rebuilding of community assets. Infrastructure plans include road repairs, replacement of vessels, establishment of affordable ferry services, and improved early warning systems with weather stations, drones, and communication tools.
“A comprehensive emergency response plan has been prioritised, alongside improving community amenities and access to water and sanitation,” Garwe said. He added that communities would receive training in water safety, first aid, and disaster preparedness.
The RIDA Mbuya Nehanda ferry capsized on August 11, 2026, near Long Island on Lake Kariba, killing at least 97 people. The vessel, reportedly authorised to carry 90 passengers, was travelling from Kariba towards rural communities and fishing areas around Chalala.
Amnesty International Zimbabwe has demanded a prompt, independent, and impartial investigation into the disaster. The organisation said the inquiry should establish whether preventable failures contributed to the tragedy and ensure that anyone found negligent is held accountable, regardless of their position.
“The authorities must conduct a prompt, effective, independent and impartial investigation into the Kariba boat disaster, with its findings, evidence and recommendations made public,” Amnesty said in a statement. “Where negligence, misconduct or regulatory failures are established, those responsible must be held accountable in fair proceedings.”
Amnesty also called for the urgent review of safety standards governing inland waterway transport, including regular vessel inspections, properly trained crews, accurate passenger manifests, and strict enforcement of boarding limits. The organisation stressed that the loss of life must not be dismissed as an unavoidable accident if preventable failures played a role.
The government has declared the disaster a national disaster under the Civil Protection Act and has pledged timely disbursement of funds from the National Civil Protection Fund to support response and recovery programmes.
