At Least 12 Dead, Dozens Missing After Boat Capsizes in DR Congo

At least 12 people have died and dozens remain missing after a boat capsized on Lake Kivu in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo).

The accident occurred on Saturday night near Idjwi Island in South Kivu Province, with local authorities saying the vessel was carrying more than 50 people.

About 15 passengers were rescued following the incident, while search and recovery operations continued for those still unaccounted for.

The boat was reportedly transporting fish traders and goods from Bwina on Idjwi Island to Boza when it capsized.

Félix Habiragi, chief of Kisheke village near the scene, said the cause of the accident was not immediately known.

Local administrator Muhindo Ntambuka Pascal confirmed that traders and goods were on board the vessel.

Videos reportedly showing the aftermath showed local residents and survivors recovering bodies from the lake.

Concerns Over Life Jackets

Boat transport is widely used across DR Congo’s lakes and rivers, but concerns have been raised over overcrowding and the use of life jackets.

Dorcelle Bagazane, a civil society member in Idjwi, said authorities had previously introduced requirements for passengers to wear life jackets.

However, she said many passengers continue to travel without them.

Second Deadly Boat Accident

The Lake Kivu accident comes days after another deadly boat disaster in DR Congo.

At least 41 people died when a boat reportedly carrying about 100 passengers and cargo capsized on Lake Tanganyika near the Congolese village of Mapera.

Another 49 people were rescued in that incident.

The two separate accidents have left at least 53 people dead within days, with search and recovery efforts still underway following the latest Lake Kivu tragedy.