Pope Leo mourns Kariba ferry disaster victims

ROMAN Catholic Church Pope Leo has expressed his condolences to families of victims of the Lake Kariba ferry disaster, which claimed the lives of more than 90 people, including several children.   In a telegram sent yesterday and signed by Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Pope said he was “deeply saddened” by news of the tragedy.   According to the Vatican News, Pope Leo extended his “heartfelt condolences” to the bereaved families and said he was entrusting the souls of those who died “to the loving mercy of Almighty God”.   The pontiff also offered prayers for civil authorities, rescue workers and all those affected by the disaster.   Lake Kariba, one of the world’s largest artificial reservoirs, borders Zimbabwe and Zambia and serves as an important transport route for rural communities and fishing communities.   Investigations are continuing into the circumstances surrounding the accident.  Reports indicate that the ferry, which had reportedly been in service for 41 years, was crossing the lake amid strong winds while heading towards rural and fishing communities in north-western Zimbabwe.   The tragedy has renewed concerns over transport safety and limited public transport links serving communities around the lake.   President Emmerson Mnangagwa declared a national state of emergency following the disaster and pledged medical and psychological support for affected families.   A memorial service for the victims was held at Kariba Stadium on August 13.

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