Tragedy on Lake Maï-Ndombe: 20 Dead as Boat Capsizes

In northwestern Congo, a boat capsized on Lake Maï-Ndombe, resulting in at least 20 deaths and several missing. The boat was en route to Kinshasa, carrying passengers including a Catholic deacon. Increasing boat capsizes in Congo highlight overloaded vessels and night navigation as major concerns.

A disastrous boat capsizing on Lake Maï-Ndombe in northwestern Congo has resulted in at least 20 deaths, with many still unaccounted for, according to local residents.

The vessel was bound for the nation's capital, Kinshasa, carrying passengers that included a newly ordained Catholic deacon, the local Diocese confirmed.

The Congolese government has yet to release an official toll; however, Governor Kevani Nkoso stated that teams are working to determine the total number of casualties. Boat accidents are recurring in Congo, attributed to overloaded vessels and the preference for night travel.

(With inputs from agencies.)