At least 12 dead, dozens missing after vessel capsizes in eastern Congo’s Lake Kivu

Bukavu: A vessel carrying traders capsized in Lake Kivu in eastern Congo, killing at least 12 and leaving dozens missing, authorities said Sunday.

The vessel was carrying more than 50 people when it capsized Saturday night on Idjwi Island, in South Kivu province, said Felix Habiragi, chief of the village of Kisheke near the scene of the accident.

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He said that about 15 people have been rescued. The cause of the accident was not immediately clear.

Deadly boat accidents are common in Congo, where rivers and lakes are a major means of transport for its more than 100 million people.

The vessel was transporting fish traders and goods from Idjwi Island’s Bwina to Boza, according to Muhindo Ntambuka Pascal, the local administrator.