HARARE, Sept. 8 (Xinhua/GNA) – The Zimbabwean government is scaling up support to communities affected by the Lake Kariba ferry capsize disaster on Aug. 11, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Zhemu Soda said Tuesday.
Speaking at a post-cabinet media briefing in the Zimbabwean capital of Harare, Soda said interventions focus on humanitarian relief and psychosocial support, recovery and resilience building, transport infrastructure, and disaster risk reduction training.
Humanitarian measures include deploying mental health personnel, distributing emergency supplies, protecting children, and supporting schooling.
For long-term recovery, the government is expanding local economic opportunities and vocational training. Infrastructure plans prioritize road repairs, vessel replacement, establishing affordable ferry services, and enhancing early warning systems with weather stations, drones, and upgraded communication tools, Soda noted.
“A comprehensive emergency response plan has been prioritized, alongside improving community amenities and access to water and sanitation,” he said.
He added that community training in water safety, first aid, and disaster preparedness is underway, supported by the timely disbursement of the National Civil Protection Fund and partnerships with educational institutions.
The disaster occurred, when an overloaded vessel carrying about 180 passengers and cargo, capsized in Lake Kariba, after being struck by strong waves en route from Kariba town to Chalala Fishing Camp. A total of 97 people died, while 77 were rescued.
Preliminary investigations attribute the disaster to human error and the captain’s negligence for proceeding, despite early weather warnings against sailing.
The government has launched a formal inquest into what is now the country’s worst public transport accident.
GNA