South Africa: Ramaphosa expresses remorse over Mozambican boat tragedy

Cape Town, South Africa (PANA) - President Cyril Ramaphosa has conveyed his condolences to the government and people of Mozambique after a disaster at sea in which nearly 100 people are believed to have drowned.  

The death toll stands at 97. Officials in Nampula province said five of the passengers believed to have been on board had been rescued.

The boat was apparently traveling from Lunga to Mozambique Island, off the coast of Nampula.

“As neighbours, we are deeply saddened by this tragedy and we wish authorities and citizens well in the recovery effort and the search for missing people. We also pray for a speedy recovery for survivors of this incident,” Ramaphosa said.

Nampula Secretary of State Jaime Neto said the passengers were fleeing in panic due to the ongoing cholera outbreak  in the region.

-0- PANA CU/RA 9April2024