Authorities in Kariba have announced a temporary suspension of marine activities on Lake Kariba. The suspension will run from 4 to 5 October 2026.
It will affect commercial, passenger and recreational activities across the lake. The decision will allow traditional leaders to conduct a sacred cleansing ceremony.
Kariba District Development Coordinator Rodwell Mtetwa formally requested the temporary closure. He wrote to Adan Nyekete, the Lake Captain in the Department of Inland Waters. Mtetwa dated the request 28 September 2026.
“The Office of the District Development Coordinator is requesting a temporary halt to all commercial, passenger and recreational marine activities on Lake Kariba from 4 October to 5 October 2026,” Mtetwa wrote.
The ceremony follows the devastating Mbuya Nehanda ferry disaster. Traditional leaders will use the occasion to honour those who died. They will also seek spiritual cleansing and safer conditions for future lake activities.
“This temporary suspension is requested to allow Chief Mola and local traditional leadership to conduct a sacred traditional cleansing ceremony on the lake.
“This important cultural rite follows the recent tragic capsizing of the ferry Mbuya Nehanda and is necessary to honour the departed, appease the spirits, and seek calm waters for all future safe navigation.”
Traditional leaders prepare ceremony after ferry tragedy
Preparations for the traditional ceremony are already underway in the area.
Traditional beer is reportedly being brewed ahead of the proceedings.
Chief Mola is expected to lead the ceremony alongside other traditional leaders.
Chief Nebiri is also expected to participate in the important cultural rites.
The proceedings are scheduled to begin around the Chalala and Siamavu area.
They will then continue towards Kariba as the ceremony progresses.
The gathering comes after the devastating events of 11 August.
The Mbuya Nehanda ferry capsized, causing widespread grief across Kariba and Nyaminyami.
At least 97 people lost their lives in the disaster.
Meanwhile, 77 people were rescued following the ferry accident.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa subsequently declared a State of Disaster.
Authorities have also launched official investigations into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
An inquest has additionally been initiated as authorities continue examining the disaster.
The temporary closure will therefore provide space for the traditional ceremony.
It will also mark an important moment of remembrance for the victims and their families.
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