A tragic boating accident in southwestern Congo claimed the lives of 25 individuals, primarily soccer players, as they returned from a match in Mushie city on Sunday night. The incident occurred on the Kwa River, and local authorities have indicated that poor visibility may have contributed to the capsizing, according to provincial spokesperson Alexis Mputu.
In addition to the fatalities, at least 30 individuals survived the incident, as reported by Renacle Kwatiba, the Mushie territory’s local administrator. Boat accidents are unfortunately commonplace in the central African nation, often attributed to late-night journeys and overcrowded boats. The enforcement of maritime safety regulations has been a persistent challenge for authorities.
Rivers in Congo serve as vital transportation routes for the over 100 million residents, especially in remote regions where road infrastructure is lacking. As a result, many people are increasingly relying on wooden boats, which are frequently overloaded with passengers and cargo, leading to a rise in fatal accidents. In recent years, hundreds have lost their lives in similar incidents, highlighting the urgent need for improved safety measures in the maritime sector.