23 dead after boat capsizes in Lake Kivu
by URN · The ObserverAuthorities in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have confirmed the death of 23 people after the MV Merdi, a passenger boat, capsized on Lake Kivu in North Kivu province.
The tragic incident occurred on Thursday as the boat, carrying over 300 passengers and cargo, sank near Kituku port, just outside Goma city.
The vessel had departed from Minova in South Kivu and was approaching its destination when it began to sink a few meters from the shore. Local sources attribute the accident to overloading, a recurring issue on the lake.
The Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) and soldiers from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) intervened in the rescue efforts. While some passengers were saved, many are feared to have gone down with the boat.
Ekuka Lipopo, vice governor of North Kivu province, confirmed in a statement on Thursday that 23 people had been found dead. However, the death toll may rise as search efforts continue. Lipopo also mentioned that approximately 40 individuals had been rescued by locals and the army.
Kituku port, a crucial hub for traders supplying goods to Goma city, has long been criticized for lacking proper traffic monitoring systems on Lake Kivu.
With the occupation of Shasha town by the March 23 (M23) rebels, many residents of Minova have increasingly relied on the lake route to access Goma, despite the risks involved. This incident is not the first of its kind on Lake Kivu. In February 2024, another boat capsized near Bahimba, resulting in the deaths of 64 people.