Kariba Ferry Disaster: What Happened to Mbuya Nehanda Refurbishment Plans?

• At least 44 people are confirmed dead in the Kariba ferry disaster.
• Mbuya Nehanda, a 41-year-old ferry operated by RIDA, had been identified as one of the ageing vessels in need of refurbishment five years prior to the disaster.
• There is no evidence that the necessary work was completed on Mbuya Nehanda, leaving many wondering what happened to the planned refurbishment plans.
• Survivors reported strong winds and water entering the boat before it sank, raising questions about human error and safety protocols.

Despite this, there is no evidence that the necessary work was completed on Mbuya Nehanda, leaving many wondering what happened to the planned refurbishment plans.

The investigation into the Kariba ferry disaster has shed light on a series of events leading up to the tragedy, raising questions about government accountability and safety protocols. Mbuya Nehanda, a 41-year-old ferry operated by Zimbabwe's Rural Infrastructure Development Agency (RIDA), had been identified as one of the ageing vessels in need of refurbishment five years prior to the disaster. Despite this, there is no evidence that the necessary work was completed, leaving many wondering what happened to the planned refurbishment plans. The state-owned Herald reported on the vessel's condition in 2021, highlighting 'constant breakdowns and high operating costs', as well as assessments of refurbishment needs and new engines for another ferry costing about US$40,000.

While weather conditions on the day of the disaster were undoubtedly hazardous, evidence suggests that warning signs existed before Mbuya Nehanda set sail. Survivor Itai Marumisa reported strong winds and water entering the boat, while passengers asked the captain to turn back or shelter at an island. The state's initial explanation for the tragedy – an unexpected strengthening of the South Indian Ocean anticyclone – has been disputed by experts who point to recurring dangers on Lake Kariba. Community warning mechanisms had been established by the Zimbabwe Red Cross Society, but it seems these warnings were ignored.

The number of people aboard Mbuya Nehanda when it sank remains a mystery, with initial reports ranging from 90 to 120 passengers and five crew. Police spokesperson Paul Nyathi initially reported the official passenger capacity, excluding crew, but later confirmed that this figure was not an accurate count of those on board. The lack of transparency in accounting for lives lost has raised concerns about the government's ability to manage disaster situations effectively.

A thorough investigation into the Kariba ferry disaster will require lawyers to scrutinize government records and documents related to the refurbishment plans for Mbuya Nehanda, including contracts awarded and work completed. Compliance officers should also review Zimbabwe's maritime laws and regulations to identify any potential gaps or weaknesses that may have contributed to the tragedy.

Source: Original reporting via The Kariba Ferry Disaster: What the State Knew & What It Did