Staff Reporter
THE African Union (AU) and the United Nations Development System in Zimbabwe have expressed condolences to the Government and people of Zimbabwe following the tragic boat accident on Lake Kariba that claimed at least 97 lives and left communities grieving.
On August 11, 2026, a catastrophic maritime accident occurred on Lake Kariba when the government-owned passenger ferry Mbuya Nehanda, operated by the Rural Infrastructure Development Agency (RIDA), capsized, resulting in at least 97 fatalities and 67 survivors.
The vessel was traveling from the resort town of Kariba to remote rural and fishing communities in the country’s northwest. It stands as the deadliest boat disaster in the history of Lake Kariba.
In a message issued on August 19, AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and loved ones of those who died in the tragedy.
“At this difficult moment of grief, my thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families and with all those who survived this tragic incident. I wish them strength, comfort and healing as they cope with this profound loss,” he said.
Youssouf said the AU stood in solidarity with Zimbabwe and the affected communities, while wishing the survivors strength and recovery.
Meanwhile, the UN Development System in Zimbabwe said it was deeply saddened by the tragedy and extended condolences to the Government, families and communities affected by the accident.
The UN Country Team said it joined Zimbabwe in mourning those who lost their lives and wished a swift recovery to those injured and affected.
It commended the Government for declaring a National Disaster and praised responders and authorities for their efforts in providing medical care, psychosocial support, and other essential services to affected communities.
“The UN Country Team stands in solidarity with the Government and people of Zimbabwe and remains ready to support national and local authorities in line with identified needs,” the UN said.
It said such support could include technical assistance aimed at strengthening maritime safety and disaster risk management.
The UN also paid tribute to first responders and others assisting affected families, describing their efforts as an important source of support during the national tragedy.
The messages from the AU and UN come as Zimbabwe continues to mourn the victims of the Lake Kariba disaster, with families and communities grappling with the loss of their loved ones.
The two continental and international bodies urged solidarity with the affected families as recovery and response efforts continue.
