70 MISSING AFTER BOAT CAPSIZES IN DR CONGO

Thu 20 November 2025:

Around 70 people are missing after a boat capsized in a river in Kasai Province in the central Democratic Republic of the Congo, local media reported Wednesday.

The boat was headed to the capital, Kinshasa, from the port of Bena Dibele, more than 800 kilometers (497 miles) away, when it sank Monday in the Sankuru River as a result of whirlwinds, according to UN radio.

“The boat was carrying roughly 120 people. About 50 have been rescued so far, and search efforts continue for those missing,” the report said, citing local administrator Francois Ahoka.

Ahoka highlighted the difficulties encountered by the rescue teams and called on families to stay in touch with local authorities for the identification of survivors and recovered bodies.

Water transport is common in Congo due to mostly impassable roads.

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The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) sees frequent deadly boat accidents, with over 500 drownings in 2024 alone across rivers and lakes like Kivu, Busira, and Fimi. Recent tragedies—78 dead on Lake Kivu (Oct 2024), 38+ missing on Busira River (Dec 2024),

Core Reasons:

Overcrowding: Boats routinely carry 2-3x capacity (e.g., 400+ on vessels meant for 120), loaded with passengers and goods. Owners overload for profit; passengers pack in to cut costs.
Poor Infrastructure & Security: Roads are scarce, potholed, or blocked by M23 rebels and clashes, forcing reliance on water travel. In east DRC, conflict displaces millions, funneling them onto ferries.
Aging, Unmaintained Vessels: Wooden boats are often dilapidated, lacking seaworthiness. No routine inspections; maritime rules ignored.
No Safety Gear: Life jackets absent; most passengers can’t swim. Night navigation without lights worsens risks.
Weather & Rescue Gaps: Sudden storms or waves tip overloaded crafts. No manifests hinder searches; limited equipment delays aid.

Gov’t vows crackdowns, but enforcement lags in remote areas. These aren’t isolated—experts call for investment in roads, regulated transport, and life-saving gear to stem the toll.

SOURCE: INDEPENDENT PRESS AND NEWS AGENCIES

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