President Cyril Ramaphosa has extended his condolences to the families of 44 people who died after a ferry capsized on Lake Kariba in Zimbabwe on Tuesday, 11 August 2026. The Presidency issued a statement on Thursday morning following the tragedy.
Search and recovery operations remain under way as authorities continue working to account for those affected.
“As South Africans, we stand in solidarity today with the nation of Zimbabwe as we mourn this extensive loss of life.
“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,” said Ramaphosa.
Lake Kariba Ferry Disaster Leaves 44 Dead
The Presidency said Ramaphosa’s thoughts were also with those who survived the ferry accident and families waiting for the results of ongoing search operations. The ferry provides transport between Kariba, a town in northern Zimbabwe, and a number of islands and fishing camps on the lake. The vessel reportedly overturned after encountering strong waves.
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Lake Kariba is situated along the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia, more than 300km north-east of Zimbabwean capital Harare. It is recognised as the world’s largest man-made lake by volume. The lake is also an important transport and fishing area for communities operating in the region.
Lake Kariba Search And Rescue Operations Continue
Authorities have so far rescued 77 people following the accident. Search and recovery teams remain deployed as efforts continue to locate and assist people affected by the ferry disaster. Families are awaiting further information as operations continue.
The scale of the tragedy has prompted a response from Zimbabwean authorities as rescue and recovery efforts continue. Emergency personnel have been working to support survivors and affected communities following the capsizing.
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Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa has declared a state of disaster following the Lake Kariba ferry tragedy. The declaration comes as authorities continue search and recovery efforts after the vessel overturned.
The incident has also drawn regional attention, with Ramaphosa expressing South Africa’s solidarity with Zimbabwe. He also paid tribute to emergency personnel involved in the response and extended his wishes for a speedy recovery to those who survived.
