Tragedy on Lake Kivu: Overcrowded Boat Claims Dozens of Lives

Investigations have been launched into two recent deadly boat accidents in Congo, including one on Lake Kivu that killed at least 78 people. Overcrowding and lack of safety measures are blamed. Families accuse authorities of negligence and demand accountability amid ongoing regional conflicts.

Congolese authorities are probing two recent boat disasters that claimed multiple lives, including the capsizing on Lake Kivu that resulted in at least 78 fatalities. The justice ministry vowed to unveil the causes and prosecute those responsible.

The incident on Lake Kivu occurred near Kituku port as a heavily overcrowded boat sunk while docking. Witnesses reported overcrowding and absence of life jackets as major factors contributing to the tragedy, alongside a morning storm.

Victims' families criticize officials for safety negligence, blaming regional conflict for forcing reliance on perilous water transport. Communities demand action against unsafe maritime practices, as frequent warnings by officials fail to curb the malaise.

(With inputs from agencies.)