South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has extended condolences to the Government and people of Zimbabwe following the RIDA passenger ferry accident on Lake Kariba that claimed 44 lives on Tuesday.
In a statement issued by SA Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya on Thursday, 13 August 2026, President Ramaphosa said South Africa stands in solidarity with Zimbabwe as the country mourns the victims.
“On behalf of the Government and people of South Africa, President Cyril Ramaphosa extends his deep condolences to the Government and people of Zimbabwe following the extensive loss of life in a tragedy on Lake Kariba, Zimbabwe,” the Presidency said.
President Ramaphosa offered his sympathies to the families of the 44 people who died when the ferry capsized on Lake Kariba on 11 August 2026.
He said his thoughts were also with the survivors of the tragedy and families who are still awaiting the outcome of continuing search operations.
“As South Africans, we stand in solidarity today with the nation of Zimbabwe as we mourn this extensive loss of life,” President Ramaphosa said.
“We wish survivors a speedy recovery, and we pay tribute to the emergency services who are working tirelessly to support and bring closure to affected families and communities.”
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