KINSHASA, Congo (BN24) — Two separate boat disasters in northwestern Congo this week have killed at least 193 passengers and left dozens more missing, authorities confirmed Friday, underscoring the persistent dangers of water travel in the vast Central African nation.
The first accident occurred Wednesday in Equateur province’s Basankusu territory, where a motorized boat carrying scores of passengers capsized, killing at least 86 people. State media reported that most of the victims were students traveling along the Congo River. Civil society groups said the toll could be higher, but officials have not confirmed additional figures.
Just a day later, tragedy struck again about 150 kilometers away in Lukolela territory, where a whaleboat with nearly 500 passengers caught fire and capsized Thursday evening near the village of Malange. The Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs said 209 people were rescued, but many remain unaccounted for.
Causes Under Investigation
State media attributed Wednesday’s sinking to “improper loading and night navigation.” Images from the scene showed villagers gathered around recovered bodies as families mourned. Local groups blamed the government for failing to enforce safety rules and claimed the actual number of victims was being underreported.
The causes of Thursday’s accident remain unclear. Officials have not said whether search and rescue efforts are continuing, and communication from the remote areas has been limited.
Deadly Pattern of Congo River Travel
Boat accidents are tragically common in Congo, where waterways are often the only means of transportation across its vast and largely roadless terrain. Most of the vessels are poorly maintained, overcrowded, and rarely equipped with life jackets. Many also travel at night, making rescue operations more difficult and leaving many bodies unrecovered.
The twin disasters this week have renewed calls for stronger safety regulations and enforcement to prevent similar tragedies.
