Online Reporter
Walter Nyamukondiwa in KARIBA
Condolence messages continue to pour in from across the corporate sector and Government as the nation grapples with the enormity of the Lake Kariba ferry disaster, the country’s worst maritime tragedy, which has so far claimed 44 lives.
The Zambezi River Authority (ZRA), which manages Lake Kariba and the Zambezi River, was among the first corporates to react, describing the accident as the biggest maritime disaster Zimbabwe has ever experienced.
ZRA chief executive Engineer Munyaradzi Munodawafa said the organisation’s thoughts remained with the bereaved.
“We send our deepest, most heartfelt condolences to the Kariba community and, indeed, the nation of Zimbabwe following the tragic loss of lives after a boat capsized on Lake Kariba,” said Eng Munodawafa.
“Our hearts are broken alongside yours. To every family that has lost a beloved son, daughter, mother or father in this tragedy, we grieve with you.
“To those still waiting anxiously for news of the missing, we hold you tenderly in our thoughts and prayers.”
The City of Harare also extended its condolences, with His Worship the Mayor, Cllr Jacob Mafume, Acting Town Clerk Advocate Warren Sean Chiwawa, councillors, management and staff saying they had learnt of the accident with deep sadness.
The local authority said it joined President Mnangagwa and the nation in mourning those who lost their lives when the boat capsized.
“The City of Harare stands in solidarity with the affected families and communities during this difficult time,” read the message of condolence.
“Our thoughts and prayers are also with those whose loved ones remain unaccounted for, those who were injured, as well as with the emergency responders and all those involved in the search and rescue efforts.”
The City of Harare commended the multi-agency search and rescue effort, which has involved police and army subaqua units combing the lake for missing passengers since the accident occurred.
Other organisations, including private companies, also sent condolence messages, with one describing the tragedy as a moment where “words often fall short” and wishing the bereaved families strength, comfort and peace.
Search and rescue operations are set to resume this morning.
