Harare – First Lady Auxilia Mnangagwa has expressed profound grief over the Kariba boat tragedy that has claimed 44 lives, with search and recovery efforts ongoing for dozens still missing.

“My heart is deeply saddened by the Kariba boat tragedy, which has claimed 44 lives, while search and recovery efforts continue,” the First Lady said in a statement Wednesday.

The vessel, operated by the Rural Infrastructure Development Agency (RIDA), capsized Tuesday afternoon near Long Island while travelling from Kariba town towards Chalala Fishing Camp after reportedly being struck by strong waves.

The ferry was carrying at least 114 adult passengers and five crew members, exceeding its 90-person capacity, along with an unconfirmed number of children.

“As a mother, I grieve with the families who have lost their loved ones and share in their unimaginable sorrow,” Mrs. Mnangagwa said.

“My thoughts and prayers are with all the affected families, while we continue to pray for those still missing.”

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has declared the incident a National Disaster, acknowledging that the tragedy had exposed “serious deficiencies” in Zimbabwe’s maritime safety capabilities . He directed all agencies associated with maritime safety to urgently implement remedial interventions .

“May God comfort and strengthen the bereaved families, guide the teams tirelessly involved in the search and rescue efforts, and grant our nation strength during this difficult time,” the First Lady added.

Sub-Aqua units from the Zimbabwe National Army and Police, alongside private citizens and conservation organisations, continue search operations in what is becoming one of the country’s deadliest maritime disasters .