Government announces US$100 assistance for Kariba disaster families

Rodwell Mtetwa, Kariba district development coordinator and chair of the Civil Protection Unit for the district, made the announcement at Kariba District Hospital. The aid will be provided to both survivors and the next of kin of those who died. Mtetwa stated that search teams are continuing operations at the island to ensure no one is left out.

The Zambezi River Authority contributed US$20,000 towards the response, including fuel for rescue teams. The government will also cover other burial-related costs such as caskets, transport, food, and clothing. The Mbuya Nehanda boat capsized last Tuesday at Long Island.

So far, 72 people have been confirmed dead and 67 survived. The government has declared the disaster a national emergency and is coordinating the response. The Civil Protection Unit will contact all registered next of kin as further assistance becomes available.

Two buses have also been provided to transport families traveling to Mola and Chalala.