New Lake Kariba ferry, MV Silverstone, to start operations on 13 October

A new certified passenger and cargo ferry will begin scheduled sailings on Lake Kariba on Tuesday, restoring a vital water link between Kariba and fishing communities along the lake.

MV Silverstone, operated by Most High Ferries, will operate on the busy Kariba-Chalala route. The service is expected to fill the gap left by MV RIDA Mbuya Nehanda, which capsized on 11 August, killing 97 people.

The vessel was officially launched in September and can carry 60 passengers and four crew. It has been certified to carry both passengers and cargo.

Most High Ferries director Hillard Mangove said the ferry was already under development before the August disaster.

“We will be starting operations this coming Tuesday and everything is now in place,” he said. “All cargo will be weighed to ensure the vessel stays within its prescribed 18-tonne limit, which covers passengers and cargo.”

Mangove said additional safety measures have been put in place. The ferry will carry at least 120 life jackets and floaters – almost double its passenger and crew capacity – and two speedboats will accompany it on each trip.

According to a public notice circulating in Kariba, the ferry will run every Tuesday and Friday, departing from Lake Harvest Harbour at 7 am.

It will sail from Kariba to Chalala, with stops at Kings Camp Fishing Camp and Musambakaruma Fishing Camp. Travellers have been advised to observe the 60-passenger limit per trip.

Advertised fares are US$15 from Kariba to Chalala, US$8 from Kariba to Kings Camp, US$12 to US$13 from Kariba to Musamba/Musambakaruma, and US$5 between Kings Camp and Musamba in either direction.

Passengers can buy tickets at Trinity Butchery near Water of Life shops, opposite Zapalala. For more information, travellers can contact 0775 849 352. Passengers are encouraged to confirm departure arrangements and ticket availability before travelling.

The scheduled service is important for lakeside communities whose livelihoods depend on fishing, trade and regular movement along the lake. Reliable water transport connects fishing camps to markets and essential services and supports the local lake economy.

The vessel has also been designed to carry goods such as ice blocks for preserving fish and salt used for drying kapenta.

The launch comes after traditional leaders in Kariba held a two-day cleansing ceremony on 4 and 5 October following the August disaster.

The rituals, led by Chief Mola and Chief Priest Lusinga, were held at sites including Snake Island, Kariba Island and the dam wall.

More: The Sunday Mail