Lake Kariba Boat Accident Declared State Of Disaster

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has declared a State of Disaster following the capsizing of a Rural Infrastructure Development Agency (RIDA) vessel on Lake Kariba, which has left 15 people dead and 27 others missing.

The declaration was announced in a press statement by the Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Daniel Garwe, on 12 August 2026.

Minister Garwe said the President declared the State of Disaster in terms of Section 27(1) of the Civil Protection Act [Chapter 10:06] following the tragic capsizing of the RIDA Mbuyanehanda water vessel on 11 August 2026.

The vessel was travelling from Kariba to Chalala when it capsized after reportedly being struck by strong waves while navigating near Long Island.

According to the Minister, at the time of the incident the vessel was carrying 119 people, comprising 114 adult passengers and five crew members, with an unconfirmed number of children also believed to have been on board.

As of the latest update, 77 people have been rescued, while 15 fatalities have been confirmed. The fate of 27 people remains unknown as search and rescue operations continue.

Garwe said Government, through the Department of Civil Protection, immediately activated the national search and rescue response.

“The operation is being conducted in close collaboration with the Zimbabwe Republic Police Sub-Aqua Unit, the Zimbabwe National Army Boat Squadron, local authorities and other relevant stakeholders,” he said.

He said rescue efforts have since been intensified, with marine rescue teams searching the affected area and assisting survivors. A privately-owned helicopter from the Matusadonha Conservation Trust has also been deployed to support aerial search and rescue operations.

The Minister said the declaration enables Government to mobilise extraordinary measures and resources necessary to assist and protect persons affected, or likely to be affected, by the disaster.

“The declaration underscores Government’s commitment to protecting lives and ensuring that all necessary resources are mobilised to support the ongoing search, rescue, recovery and humanitarian response,” said Garwe.

He said the Department of Civil Protection will continue coordinating the multi-agency response, while efforts remain focused on accounting for every passenger and crew member who was on board the vessel.

Government has extended its deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives.

“We also commend the rescue personnel, security services, local authorities, conservation partners and other stakeholders who continue to work tirelessly under challenging conditions,” Garwe said.