Pope Leo XIV has offered prayers for Zimbabwe following the devastating Lake Kariba ferry disaster. The tragedy claimed 94 lives, including children, after a vessel capsized on the lake.
According to Vatican News, the Pope said he was “deeply saddened” by the disaster. He also extended his “heartfelt condolences” to families grieving their loved ones. Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin signed the Pope’s message on 18 August.
Pope Leo XIV remembers Lake Kariba victims
The Pope placed the victims in God’s care while remembering their grieving families. He entrusted their souls “to the loving mercy of Almighty God” following the devastating accident.
Furthermore, he offered prayers for everyone affected by the tragedy. The Pope also recognised emergency workers and authorities involved in the recovery operation.
He invoked blessings of “consolation, healing and strength” for those facing the aftermath. Meanwhile, Zimbabwe continued recovering bodies from the disaster several days after the accident.
The ferry overturned on Tuesday, 11 August, while travelling towards Chalala fishing camp. It had departed from Kariba Town before making the journey across Lake Kariba.
Zimbabwean police later confirmed that the death toll had reached 94 by 18 August. Children were among those who lost their lives in the tragedy. Reports indicated that the ferry carried many passengers when it overturned.
Investigation continues after devastating accident
Authorities are now working to determine what caused the ferry to capsize. Vatican News reported that some media reports described the vessel as 41 years old.
Those reports also suggested strong winds affected conditions during the crossing. The ferry served rural and fishing communities around north-western Zimbabwe.
For many residents, water transport provides an important connection between isolated communities. Limited roads and public transport have increased reliance on Lake Kariba crossings.
Therefore, investigators are expected to examine the vessel’s condition and passenger numbers. They will also assess weather conditions and other circumstances surrounding the accident.
Meanwhile, President Emmerson Mnangagwa declared a national state of emergency. The government has promised medical and psychological assistance for affected families.
A memorial service took place at Kariba Stadium on 13 August. Families and community members gathered there to remember those who died.
Lake Kariba remains one of the world’s largest artificial reservoirs. The vast lake stretches for more than 200 kilometres along the Zimbabwe-Zambia border.
It formed after the construction of Kariba Dam on the Zambezi River. Construction began in the late 1950s and continued into the early 1960s. Today, Lake Kariba remains vital for fishermen and rural communities across the region.
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