In a heartbreaking tragedy, a makeshift ferry capsized off the northern coast of Mozambique on Sunday, resulting in the deaths of at least 94 people, including numerous children. According to officials, the boat was carrying 130 individuals between Lunga and the Island of Mozambique, in the Nampula province.

Lourenco Machado, an administrator at Mozambique's Maritime Transport Institute, revealed the devastating news on state television, stating that the vessel was overloaded and not authorized to transport passengers. Initial reports suggest that the boat was hit by a tidal wave, leading to its unfortunate sinking.

As rescue efforts continue into Monday, 26 individuals are still missing, adding to the devastating toll of the disaster. The ill-fated boat, which was primarily a fishing vessel, was not equipped to safely accommodate such a large number of passengers.

Local outlet TV Diário Nampula reported that some of the passengers were on their way to attend a fair, while others were attempting to escape from Lunga to Mozambique in order to avoid being exposed to a recent cholera outbreak in the region. According to the BBC, Jaime Neto, the secretary of state in Nampula province, revealed that there was misinformation about the alleged cholera outbreak, causing panic among the people and leading them to board the overcrowded ferry.

Jaime Neto further emphasized that due to the boat's unsuitability and overcrowding, it tragically sank, resulting in the loss of many lives, especially children who were among the victims. Mozambique, along with neighboring countries Zimbabwe and Malawi, has been grappling with a deadly cholera outbreak in recent months, prompting authorities to take measures to control its spread.

The incident highlights the challenges faced by Mozambique, where many areas can only be accessed by boat due to a deficient road network. Some regions remain completely inaccessible by land or air, making boats the primary means of transportation.

As the search and rescue operations continue, authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the boat's unauthorized transportation of passengers. The Mozambican government has expressed its condolences to the families affected by this tragic event and will continue to provide support to those in need.

This devastating incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of maritime safety regulations and the need for robust measures to prevent such tragic accidents.