Many feared dead, including children, after Kariba ferry capsizes

Rescue teams are currently searching for survivors. While 74 people have been rescued, a witness involved in the rescue efforts stated that the number of people on board could have been significantly higher than the initially reported 90 paid passengers. This witness estimated 154 people were on board, with 63 saved on Long Island, 12 picked up by a houseboat, and seven bodies recovered, leaving approximately 79 people missing.

These figures conflict with earlier police reports of 90 passengers and five crew members. Sources indicate about 40 children were believed to be on board, and some are still unaccounted for. Children under four years old did not require tickets, complicating efforts to determine the exact number of passengers.

The conflicting figures suggest the ferry may have been overloaded. The ferry was traveling from Kariba to Chalala Fishing Camp with passengers and goods. A local radio presenter, Given Siakanoka, expressed concern for relatives who were on board.

Police, army, and other local authorities are continuing search and rescue operations, though the cause of the capsizing is not yet clear.