More than 125 people were killed off Mozambique’s northern coast on Sunday when a makeshift ferry sank during a voyage, as reported by local media.
The tragic incident occurred as the boat, carrying 130 individuals, including numerous children, attempted to cross from Lunga in Nampula province to Mozambique Island.
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According to local online media TV Diário Nampula, passengers were traveling to attend a fair on the island or fleeing a cholera outbreak.
Jaime Neto, Nampula Secretary of State, attributed the disaster to misinformation about a cholera outbreak, leading to panic and overcrowding on the vessel.
“Because the boat was overcrowded and unsuited to carry passengers, it ended up sinking,” Mr. Neto stated.
Rescue efforts, ongoing since Monday, have resulted in only five survivors being found among the 130 passengers, according to officials.
Mozambique, along with neighbouring countries Zimbabwe and Malawi, has been grappling with a deadly cholera outbreak in recent months, with authorities striving to contain the spread.
Since October 2023, Mozambique has recorded 13,700 confirmed cases and 30 fatalities, with Nampula province bearing a significant brunt of the outbreak.
The influx of people fleeing conflict in neighbouring Cabo Delgado province has exacerbated the situation, with over 33,000 new arrivals reported following the latest wave of violence in February.
