At least 25 lives were lost when a boat capsized in Central Congo, raising urgent calls for river travel safety reforms.
At a Glance
- At least 25 dead and many missing after a boat capsized on the Fimi River in Maï-Ndombe province.
- Overloaded boat carrying more than 100 passengers overturned shortly after departure.
- Severe lack of road infrastructure and security issues contribute to the high demand for river travel.
- Government urged to enforce safety protocols and provide life vests to prevent future tragedies.
Tragedy Strikes Again
An overcrowded boat carrying over 100 passengers and goods capsized shortly after departing from Inongo in the Maï-Ndombe province, claiming at least 25 lives. This devastating incident highlights the increasing dangers associated with river travel in this region. Many locals rely on river transport due to subpar road infrastructure and frequent security issues that restrict access to safer transportation options, forcing them to undertake perilous journeys.
This tragic event is part of a concerning trend—these accidents are alarmingly common. The Congolese Interior Minister expressed sympathy for the affected families and called for accountability within the transport sector.
The boat capsized in the Congo river on the outskirts of Kinshasa .
At least 36 people are missing. https://t.co/6yYIo3jTk5
— DW News (@dwnews) September 15, 2019
Contributing Factors
Overloading remains a significant factor behind these incidents, with numerous reports pointing to the vessel exceeding its capacity. “There was overloading at roof level and, as far as the lifeless human bodies are concerned, at least 25 have been recovered so far,” quoted David Kalemba.
“Night navigation also played a role…” – Minister Steve Mbikayi
Many boats navigate these waters at night, a practice that adds further danger to what is already a risky form of transportation. The absence of proper lighting and navigation tools exacerbates these risks, often resulting in accidents.
A tragic boat capsizing on the Kwango River in the DRC has left at least four dead and 40 missing. Rescue efforts are ongoing in challenging conditions.https://t.co/C6MfrIvwZR
— News Central TV (@NewsCentralTV) September 17, 2024
Action is Imperative
The Congolese government faces mounting pressure to take decisive action. The installation of basic safety measures, like life vests and improved navigation technology, is essential. Additionally, enforcement of stringent regulations can prevent overcrowding and ensure safer journeys. As stated by Alex Mbumba, “The government must act to improve safety on the waters of our province (because) navigation conditions are dangerous.”
“There was overloading at roof level and, as far as the lifeless human bodies are concerned, at least 25 have been recovered so far.” – David Kalemba
Without intervention, the cycle of tragic accidents will likely continue, exacerbating the already fraught circumstances faced by residents in central Congo.
Sources
1. At Least 25 Dead After Boat Capsizes in Congo
2. Congo river disaster: at least 60 dead and hundreds missing after ‘overloaded’ boat sinks
