Boat Capsizing in Western DR Congo Kills Dozens, Mostly Teachers

Boat Capsizing in Western DR Congo Kills Dozens, Mostly Teachers
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At least 30 people, most of them teachers, have died and several others are missing after a boat capsized on a river in western Democratic Republic of Congo, according to local authorities, Anadolu Agency reported. The incident occurred over the weekend on the Kwango River in Kwilu province, though officials confirmed details publicly only on Wednesday.

The boat was carrying around 100 passengers traveling from the villages of Kingukukapayi, Kusu and Fambondo in Bagata territory, said local lawmaker Gary Sakata. Among the victims were about 20 teachers who were heading to Bandundu city to collect their monthly salaries, while other passengers were traveling for shopping ahead of year-end festivities. Around 30 people were rescued.

The vessel was also transporting heavy cargo, including cement and cassava, and reportedly struck a submerged stationary object before sinking. Sakata criticized the rural salary payment system, noting that long-distance travel places essential workers at serious risk.
River transport is widely used in Congo due to poor road infrastructure, and such accidents are frequent.