Over 80 Fatalities in DR Congo Following Boat Tragedy

President Felix Tshisekedi mandates an inquiry after a boat capsizing incident on the Kwa River in Mai-Ndombe province results in significant casualties.

Over 80 individuals have perished in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) following the sinking of their boat, as confirmed by President Felix Tshisekedi.

The incident took place on Wednesday along the Kwa River, approximately 70km (43 miles) from Mushie city in Mai-Ndombe province.

"The President of the Republic is urging an investigation to uncover the actual causes of this tragic event to avert future occurrences," the presidency's statement on X noted.

Tshisekedi "extends his sympathies to the bereaved families and loved ones," the statement added, mentioning that he has instructed officials to assist those impacted by the event.

Rita Bola Dula, the governor of Mai-Ndombe province, informed Reuters that the catastrophe was attributed to nocturnal navigation and that the probes are still ongoing.

Tragic boat accidents are frequent in the DRC, where vessels are often overcrowded. With a scarcity of paved roads in the country's expansive, forested regions, river travel is a prevalent means of transportation.