Online Reporter
Thupeyo Muleya
Beitbridge Bureau
South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa has extended his deep condolences to the people of Zimbabwe following a ferry tragedy on Lake Kariba that claimed 44 lives on Tuesday.
In a statement on Thursday, the Presidency said President Ramaphosa stands in solidarity with Zimbabwe during this difficult time.
“On behalf of the Government and people of South Africa, President Cyril Ramaphosa extends his deep condolences to the Government and people of Zimbabwe following the extensive loss of life in a tragedy on Lake Kariba, Zimbabwe,” reads part of the statement.
President Ramaphosa offered sympathies to the families of the 44 people who died when the ferry capsized, and said his thoughts are also with survivors and families who are still awaiting updates from ongoing search and rescue operations.
“As South Africans, we stand in solidarity today with the nation of Zimbabwe as we mourn this extensive loss of life,” said President Ramaphosa.
“We wish survivors a speedy recovery and we pay tribute to the emergency services who are working tirelessly to support and bring closure to affected families and communities.”
Already President Mnangagwa has since declared a national disaster following the incident, one of the worst maritime tragedies on Lake Kariba in recent years.
