Tragedy on Lake Kivu: Overloaded Ferry Capsizes, Leaving Families in Mourning
In a heartbreaking incident that has once again highlighted the dangers of maritime transport in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), a ferry carrying hundreds of passengers capsized near the port of Kituku, resulting in a provisional death toll that could rise further. Jean-Jacques Purusi, the governor of South Kivu province, confirmed the tragic news, emphasizing the need for thorough investigations into the circumstances surrounding the disaster.
The Incident: A Fatal Journey
The ill-fated ferry was en route from Minova in South Kivu province to Goma in North Kivu province when it met its tragic fate just meters from the dock. Witnesses reported that the vessel was overloaded with passengers, a common practice in a region where maritime transport has become a necessity due to ongoing conflict. Francine Munyi, who was present at the port, recounted the harrowing scene: “I saw the boat arriving from Minova, full of passengers. It started to lose its balance and sank into the lake. Some people threw themselves into the water.” Her account reflects the chaos and desperation that unfolded as the boat capsized.
A Pattern of Negligence
This incident is not an isolated event; it is part of a disturbing trend of deadly boat accidents in the DRC. Earlier this summer, another overloaded vessel sank near the capital, claiming the lives of 80 passengers. The recurring nature of these tragedies has led families and residents of Goma to voice their frustrations, accusing local authorities of negligence amid growing insecurity in the region. The ongoing conflict between armed forces and M23 rebels has rendered the roads between Goma and Minova impassable, forcing traders to rely on maritime transport, often at the expense of safety.
Voices of Grief and Anguish
The emotional toll of the disaster is palpable among the victims’ families. Bienfait Sematumba, a 27-year-old man who lost four family members in the tragedy, expressed his despair: “They are all dead. I am alone now. If the authorities had ended the war, this shipwreck would never have happened.” His words resonate with many who feel that the ongoing conflict has not only disrupted their lives but has also led to preventable tragedies like this one.
Survivors’ Stories: A Fight for Life
Among the few who survived the capsizing, approximately ten individuals were taken to Kyeshero hospital for treatment. Neema Chimanga, one of the survivors, shared her traumatic experience: “We saw the boat start to fill with water halfway. The door of the boat opened, and we tried to close it. But the water was already coming in, and the boat tilted.” Her instinct to jump into the water and swim to safety is a testament to the sheer will to survive in the face of overwhelming odds.
The Call for Action
As the community mourns the loss of life and grapples with the aftermath of this tragedy, there is a growing call for action. Elia Asumani, a shipping agent who operates on this route, voiced concerns about the safety of maritime transport in the region: “We are afraid. This shipwreck was predictable.” His statement underscores the urgent need for regulatory measures and safety protocols to prevent future disasters.
Conclusion: A Community in Mourning
The capsizing of the ferry near Kituku serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by communities in conflict-affected regions. As families grieve their losses and survivors recount their harrowing experiences, the need for accountability and improved safety measures in maritime transport becomes increasingly clear. The DRC stands at a crossroads, where the intersection of conflict, negligence, and tragedy calls for urgent attention and action to protect its citizens from further harm.