The sinking of a ferry off Mozambique’s northern coast has led to a devastating loss of life, with more than 90 fatalities according to the reports. The tragic incident occurred as the ferry, believed to be carrying nearly 130 passengers, was en route from Lunga to Mozambique Island, off Nampula’s coast. Despite rescue efforts, only five individuals were saved from the sinking vessel.
The passengers aboard the ferry were fleeing a cholera outbreak, according to Jaime Neto, Nampula’s Secretary of State. Neto highlighted that among the deceased were numerous children, emphasizing the dire consequences of the overcrowded and unfit vessel’s sinking.
Unverified social media footage purportedly shows numerous bodies scattered along a beach, underscoring the magnitude of the tragedy. The cholera outbreak has significantly impacted Nampula province, exacerbating an already dire situation across southern Africa. Unicef has labeled it the worst outbreak in 25 years, with Mozambique alone recording 13,700 confirmed cases and 30 deaths since October 2023.
Meanwhile, the neighboring Cabo Delgado province grapples with a prolonged Islamist insurgency, which has claimed thousands of lives and displaced nearly a million people over the past six years. This ongoing crisis compounds the challenges faced by Mozambique, further straining resources and exacerbating humanitarian needs.
Mozambique Island holds historical significance as the former capital of Portuguese East Africa for almost four centuries during colonial rule. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the island boasts colonial architecture and serves as a testament to its pivotal role as a trading post.
Amidst these tragedies and challenges, Mozambique mourns the lives lost in the ferry disaster, highlighting the urgent need for improved safety measures and intensified efforts to address the multiple crises afflicting the region.
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