Kariba Correspondent
The Office of the District Development Coordinator (DDC) for Kariba has requested the suspension of commercial, passenger and recreational activities on Lake Kariba on 4 and 5 October to allow traditional leaders to conduct a cleansing ceremony following the Mbuya Nehanda ferry disaster, which claimed 97 lives.
The request is contained in a letter dated 28 September 2026 addressed to the Department of Inland Waters.
“The Office of the District Development Coordinator, Kariba District, requests for the temporary suspension of all marine activities on Lake Kariba from 4 to 5 October 2026,” the letter states.
The DDC’s office said the measure would allow Chief Mola and other traditional leaders to conduct the ceremony without disruption.
“This is to facilitate a traditional cleansing ceremony to be conducted by Chief Mola and other traditional leaders following the recent Mbuya Nehanda boat accident,” the letter reads.
“The suspension of activities will ensure the ceremony is conducted peacefully and without interference from commercial, passenger or recreational marine operations,” it states.
The request comes weeks after the Mbuya Nehanda disaster, in which 97 people died when the vessel capsized on Lake Kariba.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa declared the ferry disaster a State of Disaster, while investigations into the tragedy are ongoing.
Chief Mola is expected to lead the ceremony alongside other traditional leaders, including Chief Nebiri.
Preparations are underway, with the ceremony expected to cover areas around Chalala and Siamavu before extending towards Kariba.
The DDC’s office urged the Department of Inland Waters to support the arrangements.
“Your cooperation and support in implementing this temporary suspension will be greatly appreciated,” the letter says.
