Freeman Razemba
Senior Reporter
The 65th Kariba International Tiger Fish Tournament (KITFT) got underway at Lake Kariba today amid a renewed emphasis on water safety following the ferry disaster that claimed 97 lives on the lake in August.
The three-day tournament, which is being held at the National Anglers union of Zimbabwe’s Charara Site, runs from October 7 to 9 and has attracted anglers from Zimbabwe, the SADC region and beyond.
The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development used the tournament’s official opening ceremony on Tuesday to remind participants of the need for responsible boating and strict adherence to safety regulations while on the lake.
Representing the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Engineer Joy Makumbe, Department of Inland Waters Control official Captain Warren Nyekete urged anglers to ensure their vessels and crews comply with safety requirements.
The department reminded participants that vessels should be properly registered, operated by qualified captains, correctly loaded and equipped with the required safety gear.
Anglers were also urged to wear life jackets and remain alert to changing weather conditions on Lake Kariba.
Eng Makumbe said the annual tournament had grown beyond a fishing competition to become an important tourism and social event.
“Now in its 65th year, KITFT is more than a fishing tournament. It is a celebration of tradition, friendship, competition, tourism and the enduring allure of Lake Kariba, attracting anglers from Zimbabwe, the SADC region and beyond,” he said.
KITFT chairperson Mr Rob Law also reflected on the tournament’s six-and-a-half-decade history, highlighting the generations of anglers and memories created through the event.
Separately, the ministry said the tournament was an opportunity to celebrate Lake Kariba’s importance while ensuring that activities on the water were conducted responsibly.
“As the competition gets underway, the Ministry wishes all anglers tight lines, safe boating and a memorable 65th tournament.
“Lake Kariba is not just a destination. It is a national asset, a tourism attraction and a source of livelihoods and opportunity,” the ministry said in a statement.
