Shocking Tragedy in Mozambique: 91 Dead, Including Children, as 130 People Fleeing Illness Capsize – Many Missing
In a heartbreaking incident on Sunday night in Mozambique, a boat capsized leading to the tragic deaths of 91 individuals, including many children. According to reports from the British media BBC, the fishing boat was carrying 130 people, surpassing its capacity, and so far, only 5 people have been rescued. Many are still missing.
The passengers were traveling from the city of Lungalanga in the Nampula province of Mozambique to the main island of the country. Officials stated that they were fleeing to escape the cholera outbreak.
A video related to this incident has gone viral on social media, showing rescue efforts underway and numerous bodies washed ashore.
Cholera Outbreak Threatens Lives in Mozambique
Cholera outbreaks pose a significant threat to life if left unchecked. Nampula Province is one of the most severely affected areas by the cholera epidemic. This disease has spread across many countries in Southern Africa since January 2023.
Contaminated food and water are the primary causes of cholera transmission. Without timely intervention, death can occur within hours.
According to UNICEF, the current cholera epidemic is the worst in 25 years. Mozambique has recorded 13,700 cases of cholera since October 2023, resulting in the deaths of 30 individuals.
For nearly 400 years, Mozambique’s capital, Maputo, served as the Portuguese East Africa’s capital. Its colonial architecture earned it a place on UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites.
Other Incidents Related to Boat Sinkings
Tragedy in Nigeria: 103 Fatalities
On June 14, 2023, a boat capsized in the Niger River in Kwara, Nigeria, resulting in 103 deaths with 97 individuals missing and 100 people rescued out of the 300 passengers onboard. Heavy rainfall had flooded the roads, prompting locals attending a wedding in Egboti village to opt for a boat to cross the river.
However, amidst strong currents, the boat collided with submerged branches, causing it to split and sink.
Two Boats Sink Near Italy, Claiming Lives
On August 7, 2023, off the coast of Lampedusa Island, Italy, two boats carrying migrants sank. The incident led to the deaths of two individuals, including a woman and her one-year-old daughter, while 30 people were reported missing.
The bodies were recovered by the Italian coastguard. These migrants were attempting to cross the Mediterranean from Tunisia. The Tunisian government reported that ten bodies washed ashore in their territory. Additionally, the coastguard managed to rescue 20 individuals stranded in mountainous areas of Lampedusa using helicopters.
Fatal Crossing from Libya to Europe
On December 17, 2023, a boat carrying over 60 passengers, including women and children, sank near Libya while en route to Europe. The boat departed from the port of Zwara, Libya, and was destined for Europe.
According to BBC reports, the vessel overturned in rough sea conditions. In 2023 alone, over 2,200 migrants attempting to reach Europe irregularly have lost their lives at sea.
