Online Reporter
Africa Moyo [email protected]
PALESTINIAN President Mahmoud Abbas has conveyed his condolences to President Mnangagwa and the people of Zimbabwe following the Mbuya Nehanda ferry disaster on Lake Kariba, which has claimed 97 lives.
In a letter addressed to President Mnangagwa and seen by Zimpapers, President Abbas expressed profound sorrow over the tragedy and pledged solidarity with Zimbabwe as the nation mourns what is now regarded as its worst transport disaster.
“With great sorrow, we received the sad news of capsizing of a ferry in Lake Kariba, which resulted in the drowning of many passengers who were on board,” wrote President Abbas.
He said Palestine stood with Zimbabwe during its time of grief and extended condolences to the families of the victims and the nation as a whole.
“While we share with you sadness and sorrow during this human disaster, we express to Your Excellency and through you, to the families of the deceased victims and the entire friendly people of Zimbabwe, our deep heartfelt condolences, hoping for those who are missing, survival and safety, voicing our solidarity with you (and) wishing the brave rescue teams success in their rescue mission. Please accept, Your Excellency, our deep sympathies and condolences,” he wrote.
The message adds to a growing number of condolences Zimbabwe has received from across the international community following the disaster.
Countries and organisations that have expressed sympathy and solidarity with Zimbabwe include South Africa, Rwanda, the United Arab Emirates, China, Vatican City and the African Union.
Palestine’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, Dr Varsen Aghabekian Shahin, also sent a message of condolence to Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister Professor Amon Murwira.
Dr Shahin said he was “deeply saddened” by the ferry accident and conveyed sympathy to the Government and people of Zimbabwe.
“On behalf of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the State of Palestine and on my own behalf, I extend my deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathy to Your Excellency, the Government and people of the Republic of Zimbabwe, and, above all, to the families who have lost their loved ones,” he said.
Dr Shahin said Palestine’s thoughts and prayers remained with the victims and their families during the difficult period.
“We also pray for the safe recovery of those who remain missing and for the success of the ongoing search-and-rescue operations. The State of Palestine stands in full solidarity with the Republic of Zimbabwe during this painful moment. We express our sincere support and sympathy to the Zimbabwean people and share in their grief as they mourn this tragic loss,” said Dr Shahin.
Dr Shahin also requested Prof Murwira to convey Palestine’s heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved families and all those affected by the tragedy.
“May the souls of the departed rest in eternal peace, and may their families and loved ones be granted strength, comfort and patience during this time of sorrow,” said Dr Shahin.
The Mbuya Nehanda ferry disaster has prompted an outpouring of international sympathy as Zimbabwe continues search, recovery and support efforts while investigations into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy continue.
