Mnangagwa Declares Disaster After Lake Kariba Ferry Capsizes

President Emmerson Mnangagwa declared a state of disaster under the Civil Protection Act after the Mbuya Nehanda ferry capsized on Lake Kariba, with the death toll rising to 44, according to iHarare and New Zimbabwe. The Rural Infrastructure Development Agency (RIDA)-operated vessel was overloaded with over 114 passengers despite a 90-person capacity, as reported by multiple outlets including ZimEye. Survivors recounted harrowing moments, with one security officer stating 153 people were on board, per New Zimbabwe. Opposition groups and the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) demanded full accountability, arguing that mourning alone is insufficient, as reported by Daily News. Mnangagwa acknowledged systemic maritime safety failures and ordered an urgent overhaul, according to New Zimbabwe. The tragedy exposes institutional negligence and has sparked calls for heads to roll, with investigations ongoing.