The death toll from a ferry disaster on Zimbabwe's Lake Kariba has risen to 93, making it the country's deadliest transport accident, according to the state-run Herald newspaper. The vessel, which had a stated capacity of 90 passengers, is estimated to have been carrying at least 168 people when it was struck by a strong wave and capsized a week ago. President Emmerson Mnangagwa declared a state of disaster, and divers are continuing search and recovery operations on the lake, a major reservoir that straddles the Zambia border and supplies hydroelectric power to both countries.

The toll has climbed steadily, from 44 at the time of the sinking to 84 over the weekend and now 93, with nine further bodies recovered by divers, some drifting towards Zambia. Police say 83 victims have been identified so far, including 39 children, while 67 people were rescued; officials warn DNA testing may be needed as remaining bodies become harder to identify. Survivors described the ferry as dangerously overloaded with luggage that buried the life jackets, leaving fewer than 30 people able to reach them, while local communities, including Mola village, are grappling with cases of children orphaned by the disaster.