At least 25 people, including children, died when an overcrowded vessel capsized on Congo’s Fimi River Tuesday, with dozens more passengers missing from the estimated 100 aboard. The boat overturned shortly after departing from Inongo town, marking the fourth such disaster this year in Maï-Ndombe province.
River Commissioner David Kalemba confirmed excessive roof-level loading contributed to the accident, while local resident Alex Mbumba reported the vessel was also heavily laden with cargo. Search efforts continue as officials fear the death toll could rise significantly.
The incident highlights persistent transportation safety challenges in central Congo, where residents increasingly rely on waterways due to security concerns along roadways affected by rebel conflicts. Recent months have seen similar tragedies, including 78 drownings in eastern Congo in October and 80 deaths near Kinshasa in June.
Despite government warnings against overloading and promises of stricter safety enforcement, many remote communities cannot afford alternative transportation options. Local authorities are calling for improved safety measures, including the provision of flotation devices throughout the province.
