UAE offers condolences to Zimbabwe after ferry capsizes in Lake Kariba

The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) issued a formal statement on Tuesday, 18 August, expressing solidarity with the Republic of Zimbabwe following a passenger ferry disaster on Lake Kariba. The vessel capsized on Monday, 17 August, resulting in dozens of confirmed deaths, injuries, and several people reported missing. Official condolences issued In the statement, the Ministry conveyed its condolences to the Zimbabwean government and the families of the victims. The UAE also expressed its wishes for the swift recovery of those injured in the accident. The disaster occurred on Lake Kariba, one of the world's largest man-made reservoirs, which is frequently used for commercial transport between Zimbabwe and Zambia. Diplomatic response to tragedy The announcement follows a series of recent reports from Zimbabwean local authorities regarding the scale of the incident. Search and rescue operations are reportedly ongoing to locate those still missing after the ferry overturned. The tragedy marks one of the most significant maritime accidents in the region this year, prompting international messages of support for the victims. This formal expression of sympathy is a standard diplomatic procedure following major international disasters. The Ministry’s communication serves as the official UAE response to the incident, as the Zimbabwe government continues to investigate the cause of the capsizing and verify the final casualty count.