Pope Leo ‘deeply saddened’ by Zimbabwe ferry disaster

Pope Leo XIV has expressed his condolences following the Lake Kariba ferry disaster in Zimbabwe that claimed the lives of 94 people, including children.

According to Vatican News, the Pope said he was “deeply saddened” after learning about the accident and sent his “heartfelt condolences” to families mourning the loss of their loved ones.

The message was contained in a telegram signed by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin and sent on 18 August.

The Pope entrusted the souls of those who died “to the loving mercy of Almighty God” while offering prayers for their families and everyone affected by the tragedy.

Zimbabwe ferry disaster claims more than 90 lives

The accident happened on Tuesday, 11 August, when a ferry travelling from Kariba Town towards the Chalala fishing camp capsized on Lake Kariba.

Zimbabwean police said the recovery of more additional bodies on 18 August brought the confirmed death toll to 94.

Among those who died were children.

The vessel was reportedly carrying a large number of passengers when it overturned while crossing the lake.

The Pope also remembered the emergency personnel and civil authorities involved in the ongoing search and rescue operation.

He invoked blessings of “consolation, healing and strength” on those affected by the disaster.

Investigations into Lake Kariba ferry disaster continue

Investigations are continuing to establish exactly what caused the ferry to capsize.

Vatican News reported that some press reports indicated the vessel had been in service for 41 years and that the crossing took place amid strong winds.

The ferry was travelling towards rural and fishing communities in north-western Zimbabwe, where poor road infrastructure and limited public transport make water transport an important link for some communities.

The circumstances surrounding the vessel’s passenger capacity and the conditions on the lake are expected to form part of the investigation.

Mnangagwa declares national emergency

Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa declared a national state of emergency following the disaster.

The government has pledged medical and psychological support for families affected by the tragedy.

A memorial service for victims was held at Kariba Stadium on 13 August, where relatives and members of the community paid tribute to those who died.

Lake Kariba is one of the world’s largest artificial reservoirs and forms part of the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia.

The lake was created following the construction of the Kariba Dam on the Zambezi River between the late 1950s and early 1960s and stretches for more than 200 kilometres.

It remains an important transport route for rural communities and fishermen living around the lake.