Ferry Boat Tragedy: Over 100 Dead, 20 Missing off Mozambique Coast
In a heartbreaking event, over 100 individuals, including children, perished, and approximately 20 others remain unaccounted for after a ferry boat capsized off the Northern Coast of Mozambique.
President Filipe Nyusi of Mozambique disclosed the incident on April 8, 2024.
An official from the Maritime Transport Institute (INTRASMAR) revealed that the boat was overloaded with 130 passengers, operating without a license.
The ferry boat was transporting passengers from Nampula’s Lunga to Mozambique Island on April 8, 2024. Initial reports suggest that the vessel was struck by a tidal wave.
According to a statement from the Office of the Secretary of State for Nampula province, the passengers were purportedly fleeing from a cholera outbreak. Ten individuals have been rescued, while 20 others remain unaccounted for.
President Nyusi expressed profound sadness over the tragedy and called for the South African Transport Minister to conduct a comprehensive investigation at the site.
The Mozambican Government plans to convene a meeting to assess the situation and implement necessary measures to mitigate the effects of this tragic incident.
Images from the scene depicted lifeless bodies strewn across the beach, while some individuals were seen carrying the bodies of their children.
Since the previous year, Mozambique, alongside other South African nations, has been grappling with cholera outbreaks.
According to data from the Mozambican government, the country has documented 15,051 cases of cholera since October, resulting in 32 fatalities. As of April 8, 2024, Nampula province has reported 5,084 cholera cases, with 12 fatalities.
The majority of regions in Mozambique can only be reached by boats, which often become overcrowded. The nation requires improved road infrastructure, particularly in areas inaccessible by land or air.
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