At least 78 people died when an overcrowded boat capsized on Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s Great Lakes, located in eastern Congo along the border with Rwanda. The boat was carrying around 278 passengers, and many were still missing after the accident. Rescue teams continued searching for survivors.
Jean-Jacques Purusi, the governor of South Kivu province, explained that the boat had departed from Minova and was headed to Goma. The boat sank just before reaching the port of Kituku. Witnesses said they saw about 50 bodies recovered from the water.
Boat accidents are common in Congo, where overcrowding and poor safety practices are often to blame. The lack of life jackets and a strong morning storm likely contributed to this tragedy. Overloaded boats have caused multiple accidents in recent months, with dozens of lives lost.
Many locals rely on water transport since roads are often too dangerous due to fighting between armed groups. Shipping agents and residents had warned that this situation was becoming increasingly risky. One survivor, Neema Chimanga, shared how she narrowly escaped by jumping into the water as the boat started sinking.
Victims’ families gathered at the port, accusing authorities of negligence and demanding action to prevent future accidents.
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