Kinshasa: At least 193 people have died in two separate boat accidents in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, highlighting the recurring dangers of river transport in the country.

The deadliest incident occurred near Malange village in Lukolela territory, Equateur Province, when a whaleboat carrying hundreds of passengers caught fire and sank on the Congo River.

Authorities confirmed at least 107 people were killed, while 209 survivors were rescued, many with injuries. Around 146 passengers remain missing. The fire also spread to nearby riverside homes, destroying at least 15 houses.

Just a day earlier, a motorized canoe capsized in Basankusu territory, northeast of Lukolela, killing at least 86 people, most of them students. Local civil society groups blamed overloading and nighttime navigation for the disaster.

The government has pledged medical treatment for survivors and assistance to families of the victims. Naval units, supported by volunteers, are continuing search and recovery operations in both accident sites.

Deadly accidents on Congo’s rivers are frequent, with vessels often overcrowded and lacking basic safety measures. Poor infrastructure, limited enforcement of regulations, and the remoteness of many river communities make rescue efforts difficult and often delayed.

The twin tragedies have reignited calls for stronger transport safety enforcement and investment in safer infrastructure to prevent further loss of life on the country’s waterways.