Tanzania: Hundreds Feared Dead in Ferry Capsize

At least 86 people have been confirmed dead after a ferry carrying hundreds of people capsized yesterday on Lake Victoria, Tanzania.

According to authorities, the number of casualties was previously tallied at 44 but has since more than doubled, and the final count could be more than 200.

The MV Nyerere ferry overturned shortly after leaving the dock on the island of Ukerewe, between the islands of Ukara and Bugolora, on Thursday afternoon.

Local sources say the ferry’s capacity was 100 people, but according to officials the vessel was carrying more than 400 passengers when it upended.

Accidents involving dangerously overcrowded vessels are often reported on the large freshwater lake surrounded by Tanzania, Uganda and Kenya.

In 1996, more than 800 lives were lost when the MV Bukoba tipped over and sank on Lake Victoria. It is considered the worst maritime disaster in Africa of the last century.

Rescue efforts continued on Friday morning after being put on hold overnight. Approximately 100 people have been rescued, with 32 in critical condition.

Image: Volunteers have been helping rescue efforts [online image] (2018) sourced on 21 September 2018 from
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-45594513