New Kariba Ferry Set to Begin Operations Tuesday After Deadly Disaster

The vessel, MV Silverstone, will operate on the Kariba–Chalala route under Most High Ferries (Pvt) Ltd. It is certified to carry 60 passengers and four crew members and is equipped with two emergency tender boats.

The start of commercial services follows the vessel's official launch on 18 September and comes as authorities continue examining the circumstances of the August ferry disaster, in which 97 people were reported to have died.

Ferry service to resume

MV Silverstone is expected to transport passengers and cargo between Kariba and Chalala, providing a connection for communities and businesses that depend on water transport.

The ferry's introduction is particularly significant for residents living along the lake, where road journeys can be lengthy and expensive.

The vessel's approved passenger capacity and emergency equipment have been highlighted in reports ahead of its entry into service. However, the operator has yet to publicly confirm all the practical details needed by travellers, including fares and regular sailing times.

For passengers, the immediate concern will be whether the service operates reliably and in accordance with the safety requirements attached to its certification.

Inquiry into August tragedy

The resumption of ferry operations comes while an official inquiry examines the August disaster.

The inquiry is chaired by Supreme Court judge Justice Joseph Mafusire and is expected to consider the circumstances surrounding the incident, including vessel loading and compliance with safety procedures.

The reported loss of 97 lives made the disaster one of the most serious recent tragedies associated with water transport on Lake Kariba.

Its findings could have implications for how passenger vessels are inspected, operated and supervised.

No findings from the inquiry should be treated as established until they are formally released.

The inquiry follows the 11 August sinking of the Mbuya Nehanda ferry on Lake Kariba. As previously reported by "The Granite Post Zimbabwe, the disaster claimed 97 lives" , making it the country's deadliest recorded transport accident.

Safety remains central

The introduction of a certified vessel is an important step, but passenger confidence will depend on the standards maintained during regular operations.

These include observing approved loading limits, ensuring that safety equipment is available and maintaining effective emergency procedures.

Lake Kariba supports fishing, tourism, trade and passenger movement. For some communities along its shores, ferry services are an essential transport link rather than simply an alternative means of travel.

The arrival of MV Silverstone could improve access between communities and trading centres, although the practical benefits will depend on its routes, schedules and affordability.

With the first commercial journeys scheduled for Tuesday, attention will now turn to the vessel's operation and the enforcement of passenger safety requirements.

The official inquiry into the August disaster remains an important part of that process, particularly for families still seeking answers about what happened.