Equateur Province, Congo: Authorities in the Democratic Republic of Congo have confirmed that 86 people lost their lives in a boat accident that occurred on the night of Wednesday, September 10, 2025, in the Equateur Province of northwestern Congo. Most of the victims were reportedly students. The details of the tragedy came to light only recently, prompting a swift response from local officials.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the accident was caused by overloading and night-time travel. Officials have launched a formal inquiry to determine the exact circumstances, including the total number of passengers on board and how many survived. Boat accidents are common in Congo due to poorly maintained vessels, disregard for safety protocols, and excessive passenger loads.
DRAME FLUVIAL DANS LA PROVINCE DE L’ÉQUATEUR
Au moins 86 personnes,dont plus d 60 élèves,ont tragiquement perdu la vie ds le naufrage d’un bateau motorisé survenu ds la soirée du mercredi 10 septembre, au confluent d rivières Nsolo et Baringa,dans le territoire de Basankusu pic.twitter.com/aRVkPKmWkq— BOKUTANI INFOS TV (@lutonda83) September 12, 2025
With limited road connectivity in the region, rivers and lakes are the primary mode of transport for many residents. The government expressed deep shock over the incident, offering condolences to the families of the deceased and confirming that search and rescue operations are ongoing. Authorities have pledged a comprehensive investigation to prevent similar tragedies in the future, though frequent boat accidents continue to raise serious safety concerns in the country.