Water transport on Lake Kariba is expected to resume soon following the certification of a privately owned ferry.

The vessel could begin operating within days after completing mandatory safety inspections.

Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona confirmed that officials had inspected and certified the ferry.

The Government invited private operators to help restore transport services after the deadly August 11 ferry disaster.

The tragedy claimed 97 lives and left communities without their usual water transport connection.

The ferry service remains crucial for residents in Kariba Rural and Kariba Urban.

The construction of Kariba Dam separated the two communities, making water transport particularly important.

“This was another mode of transport that was quite convenient for the people of Kariba Rural and Kariba Urban. When the dam was constructed, it separated Kariba Urban from Kariba Rural,” he said.

Road travel between the communities creates a major burden for residents and businesses.

“So, this was the most convenient mode of transportation. If one is to use the road to connect the two areas, the shortest route is 313km, while the longest is 437km.”

Minister Mhona said authorities were satisfied with the privately offered vessel following the required inspections.

“And this is what we have done as a ministry. We have finally inspected one of the ferry boats and we are satisfied.

“Apparently, it circulated on social media. Yes, it was the boat, but it had to undergo the relevant inspections. We are happy that it has now been certified and, within a few days, it will be back on the water to bridge the gap left by RIDA,” he said.

More Boats Planned as Safety Measures Expand

The Government also plans to increase the number of vessels serving communities around Lake Kariba.

“Not only that, we are also procuring two more boats through RIDA.

“The procurement process is currently underway, so that we have not only one boat, but two or three more servicing the same route,” said Minister Mhona.

The measures follow the capsizing of the RIDA ferry, known as Mbuya Nehanda.

The vessel was travelling from Kariba Town to Chalala Fishing Camp when the disaster occurred.

Seventy-seven people survived, while 97 others lost their lives.

President Mnangagwa subsequently declared the incident a State of Disaster.

Cabinet later approved a wider recovery package covering humanitarian support and infrastructure development.

Information Minister Dr Zhemu Soda said authorities would strengthen support for affected communities.

“Efforts under humanitarian relief and psychosocial support include deploying skilled personnel to provide mental health support, supplying emergency aid, protecting children and promoting education,” he said.

The Government will also improve early warning systems around the lake.

Weather stations, drones and communication equipment will support monitoring and emergency responses.

“A comprehensive emergency response plan has been prioritised, alongside improvements to community amenities and access to water and sanitation,” said Minister Soda.

Communities will also receive training in water safety, first aid and disaster preparedness.

Local Government Minister Daniel Garwe said counselling services had reached affected communities.

“We are now conducting training programmes on disaster survival so that people are equipped to save themselves in the event of an emergency,” he said.

Officials also plan livelihood programmes, vocational training and community businesses.

These measures aim to restore transport while improving safety and resilience around Lake Kariba.

The post appeared first on iHarare News.