Online Reporter
Online Reporter
PRESIDENT Mnangagwa has declared the Lake Kariba boat accident a National Disaster following the capsizing of a Rural Infrastructure Development Agency (RIDA) boat which has so far claimed 44 lives.
In a condolence message yesterday, the President said he received the news of the tragedy, which occurred on Tuesday afternoon, “with a heavy heart and profound sadness”.
“As we mourn the tragic passing of 44 souls whose bodies have so far been retrieved, I wish to thank the prompt response by our security arms and private citizens who rose to the occasion following this deadly incident,” he said.
“Without their swift response, many more lives would have been lost in the rough and choppy conditions which obtained on the lake on the day.”
Search and recovery operations are continuing with subaqua units from the Zimbabwe National Army and the Zimbabwe Republic Police working to locate the remaining missing persons.
On behalf of ZANU PF, Government and the people of Zimbabwe, President Mnangagwa extended heartfelt condolences to families who lost loved ones in the accident.
“Government is doing its utmost to ensure that all the missing persons are accounted for,” he said.
President Mnangagwa wished a speedy recovery to survivors and directed that specialised health services provide suitable counselling to help them overcome the trauma.
He further noted that the tragedy had exposed serious deficiencies in the country’s maritime capabilities which must be addressed as a matter of urgency.
“Accordingly, I direct all agencies associated with our maritime safety, including, especially specialised units within our security forces, to take an active interest in ensuring remedial interventions in this area,” President Mnangagwa said.
“Through this message, I declare this mishap a National Disaster and further direct relevant authorities to provide all necessary assistance to the affected families, including medical, psychosocial, and funeral support.
“Let us, as a nation, unite in prayer for the souls of the departed, for the success of the ongoing search operations, speedy recovery of survivors and for comfort and strength for the bereaved families,” said the President.
