The most serious disaster happened on Thursday evening on the Congo River near the village of Malange, in Lukolela territory. A whaleboat carrying nearly 500 people caught fire and capsized. The Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs confirmed that 107 people were killed, while 209 survived. At least 146 passengers remain missing.
Just a day earlier, in Basankusu territory, another motorised boat capsized, killing 86 people, most of them students. Local authorities said several more passengers are still unaccounted for.
According to the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, the Thursday accident was caused by 'improper loading and night navigation.' Civil society groups in the region warned that the actual death toll could be higher, as many passengers were travelling without being registered.
River transport is a primary means of travel in DR Congo's remote areas, but accidents are frequent. Boats are often overloaded, poorly maintained, and lack basic safety equipment such as life jackets. Navigation at night, combined with weak rescue infrastructure, makes accidents especially deadly.
Rescue operations are ongoing, with survivors receiving medical treatment and support from local authorities and volunteers. Families of the victims have begun to bury their loved ones, while search teams continue looking for those still missing.
Government officials have pledged assistance to the families of the deceased and survivors who lost their belongings. An investigation into both accidents has been launched, with authorities vowing to hold those responsible accountable.
Deadly boat accidents are common in the DR Congo, where vast rivers cut through remote provinces and road networks are scarce or impassable. With limited alternatives, many communities rely on river transport despite the dangers.
Rania Umutoni
