Nairobi: Africa continues to grapple with frequent and deadly ferry accidents, with over 2,000 fatalities reported in 2024 alone. The majority of these deaths occurred in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Tanzania, and Mozambique, highlighting a persistent crisis in maritime safety across the continent.

In 2024, a total of 55 ferry accidents claimed 2,033 lives, with the three countries accounting for nearly 72 percent of all fatalities. Many of these incidents take place in remote areas where rescue efforts are limited and emergency responses are slow.

Notable disasters include the 2011 capsizing of the MV Spice Islander I off Zanzibar, Tanzania, which killed at least 200 people despite the vessel being designed to carry only 645 passengers. In 2018, the MV Nyerere ferry on Lake Victoria capsized, resulting in over 200 deaths due to severe overloading.

Mozambique experienced a tragedy in 2024 when an unlicensed, overcrowded fishing boat sank off the northern coast, killing at least 94 people. More recently, in 2025, two separate boat accidents on the Congo River in Equateur province claimed at least 193 lives, including students, when one vessel capsized and another caught fire before sinking.

Experts point to several factors behind these recurring disasters, including chronic overloading of vessels, inadequate enforcement of safety regulations, poor vessel maintenance, nighttime operations without proper navigation systems, and limited rescue capabilities in remote regions.

Addressing the crisis requires comprehensive action. Governments are urged to enforce stricter maritime regulations and conduct regular vessel inspections. Public awareness campaigns about overloading and safety procedures can help reduce accidents. Investments in port infrastructure, communication systems, and emergency rescue facilities are essential. International cooperation and technical support from maritime organizations can also enhance safety standards.

The ongoing ferry disasters in Africa highlight the urgent need for reform and accountability. Authorities, communities, and international partners must work together to prevent further loss of life and improve the safety of maritime travel across the continent.