Fri Sep 12 21:49:39 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
Two separate boat accidents in Equateur province, Democratic Republic of Congo, this week have resulted in at least 193 deaths and dozens of missing people. The first accident occurred on Wednesday in Basankusu territory, killing at least 86 people, mostly students, when a motorised boat capsized. The second incident happened on Thursday near Malange in Lukolela territory, where a boat carrying nearly 500 passengers caught fire and capsized, killing 107 people. Overloading, night navigation, and poor boat maintenance are suspected causes. River transport is vital in the DRC, but dangerous due to poorly maintained vessels and lack of safety measures. Rescue operations continue, but are hampered by limited resources and remote locations.
**News Article:**
**Over 190 Dead, Dozens Missing in Congo Boat Accidents**
**KINSHASA, DRC** – At least 193 people have died and dozens remain missing after two separate boat accidents in Equateur province, Democratic Republic of Congo, this week, according to authorities and state media.
The first tragedy occurred on Wednesday in Basankusu territory, where a motorised boat capsized, claiming the lives of at least 86 people, many of whom were students. State media attributed the accident to “improper loading and night navigation.”
A second, even deadlier incident occurred on Thursday evening near the village of Malange in Lukolela territory. A whaleboat carrying nearly 500 passengers caught fire and capsized on the Congo River, resulting in the deaths of 107 people, according to the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs. 209 survivors were rescued.
“We are deeply saddened by these tragic events,” said a spokesperson from the Ministry. “Our thoughts are with the families of the victims.”
River transport is a critical lifeline for communities in the DRC’s vast rainforest regions. However, these routes are fraught with danger due to the use of old, poorly maintained vessels, frequent overloading, and a lack of safety measures like life jackets. Night travel also exacerbates the risks.
Rescue operations are ongoing, with naval personnel and community volunteers combing the riverbanks. Authorities have pledged medical care for the injured, assistance to bereaved families, and the repatriation of survivors. However, rescue efforts are being hampered by limited resources and the remote locations of the accidents.
Local civil society groups have criticised the government, claiming the death toll may be higher and pointing to the need for stricter regulations and enforcement to ensure safer river transport in the region. The government has not yet responded to the accusations.
First Piper 