By Sipiwe Nyoni
KARIBA — Following the official declaration of the tragic RIDA passenger ferry accident on Lake Kariba a national state of disaster, State officials and grieving community members gathered at Nyamhunga Stadium for a solemn joint memorial service to honour the victims on Thursday.
Leading the official delegation, Local Government and Public Works Minister, Honourable Daniel Garwe, Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister, Honourable Barbara Rwodzi and Mashonaland West Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Marian Chombo ,arrived at the venue to pay their respects and convey the nation’s condolences to the bereaved families.
The stadium grounds served as the backdrop for a sorrowful scene as rows of caskets were arranged side-by-side beneath marquees, reflecting the magnitude of the tragedy that has plunged the entire nation into mourning.
Following the formal declaration of a state of disaster, government authorities reiterated their commitment to providing full support to the affected families during the burial process, while promising a thorough review of safety regulations and operational standards across all national inland waterways to prevent similar catastrophes in the future.
