Around 70 people remain unaccounted for after a passenger vessel capsized on the Sankuru River in Kasai Province, central Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), earlier this week, according to local media reports and UN radio. The tragedy has once again underscored the dangers of river transport in remote regions where waterways serve as the only dependable means of long-distance travel.
Whirlwinds Blamed for Deadly Capsize
The vessel was reportedly travelling from the inland port of Bena Dibele toward the capital, Kinshasa—a journey spanning more than 800 kilometres—when sudden whirlwinds overturned it on Monday. The turbulence sent passengers and cargo into the fast-moving waters of the Sankuru.
Local administrator Francois Ahoka, speaking to UN radio, said the boat was carrying roughly 120 passengers. Around 50 people have been rescued so far, while dozens remain missing as search operations continue along the river.
“The search operations are still under way in extremely difficult conditions,” Ahoka said, noting that rescue teams are contending with strong currents, poor visibility and limited equipment—persistent challenges in the DRC’s remote interior.
Rescue Teams Struggle Against Harsh Conditions
Authorities have deployed river patrols, police units and local volunteers to comb the Sankuru River for survivors and bodies. But severe winds, floating debris and thick riverbank vegetation have slowed efforts, officials say.
Ahoka urged families with missing relatives to maintain contact with administrative offices to help verify identities as survivors or remains are found. He also appealed for additional support from regional and national institutions, citing shortages of fuel, boats and protective gear. Many rescuers are relying on improvised tools, limiting the areas they can safely reach.
A Dangerous but Vital Travel Lifeline
River transport remains essential across large parts of the DRC, particularly in regions where road networks are dilapidated or nonexistent. Ferries and wooden barges—often overloaded—are common, especially along major waterways such as the Congo, Kasai and Sankuru rivers.
Accidents increase during the rainy season, when storms and whirlwinds intensify. Safety regulations are weak, and many operators lack life jackets, navigation tools or trained personnel. Humanitarian groups have repeatedly called for stronger oversight, safer vessels and public awareness campaigns, but progress has been slow due to financial constraints and the country’s vast geography.
Authorities Vow to Continue Search
Kasai officials say their immediate focus remains rescuing survivors. Recovery teams are expected to remain at the site for several days, working closely with residents of riverside communities who have joined the effort.
The national government has not yet released an official casualty count. A formal update is expected once authorities complete identity verification for rescued individuals and any recovered victims.