Nampula province

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At least 94 people died after an overcrowded makeshift ferry sank off the north coast of Mozambique, the news agency AFP reported on Sunday (Apr 7) citing authorities. The ferry, which was a converted fish boat, was carrying around 130 people and ran into trouble as it tried to reach an island off Nampula province. The deceased also included children, authorities added.

The ferry was headed to the Island of Mozambique. 

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Speaking to AFP, Nampula’s Secretary of State Jaime Neto said, "Because the boat was overcrowded and unsuited to carry passengers, it ended up sinking. Many children were among the victims."

Panic caused by cholera disinformation

Rescuers had found five survivors and were searching for more but sea conditions were making the operation difficult. Neto told AFP that most of the passengers were trying to escape the mainland because of a panic caused by disinformation about cholera.

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Neto added that an investigating team was working to find out the causes of the disaster. Of the five survivors, two were receiving treatment in a hospital, the official added. 

Mozambique has recorded almost 15,000 cases and 32 deaths due to cholera since October last year, AFP reported citing government data. Nampula is the worst affected region and accounts for a third of all cases.

The province has also received a large influx of people fleeing a wave of jihadist attacks in its northern neighbour of Cabo Delgado.

(With inputs from agencies)