Overloaded Ferry Capsizes in Congo, Leaving 38 Dead and Over 100 Missing

The accident on the Busira River highlights recurring safety issues as overloaded boats remain a common yet dangerous mode of transport in remote regions.

• The ferry was carrying over 400 passengers, mostly merchants traveling home for Christmas, when it capsized late Friday night on the Busira River in northeastern Congo.
• Officials have confirmed 38 deaths, with more than 100 people still missing, while 20 survivors have been rescued so far.
• The ferry was part of a convoy of vessels, and the incident follows another boat accident earlier in the week that killed 25 people in the same region.
• Local authorities and residents have criticized the government for failing to enforce safety measures, such as providing flotation devices, and allowing unsafe vessels to operate at night.
• Overloaded boats are increasingly relied upon in Congo due to poor road infrastructure and ongoing conflicts that make land travel dangerous, despite repeated warnings about the risks.

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