At Least 50 Dead, Hundreds Missing After Boat Catches Fire and Capsizes in DR Congo
The vessel, carrying approximately 400 passengers, had departed from Matankumu port and was en route to Bolomba territory when the fire broke out near Mbandaka, the capital of Equateur Province.
Mbandaka, DRC – April 17, 2025: At least 50 people have died and hundreds remain missing after a wooden motorised boat caught fire and capsized on the Congo River in northwestern Democratic Republic of the Congo late Tuesday night, local officials confirmed.
The vessel, carrying approximately 400 passengers, had departed from Matankumu port and was en route to Bolomba territory when the fire broke out near Mbandaka, the capital of Equateur Province.
According to Competent Loyoko, the region’s river commissioner, the fire was likely caused by cooking on board. As flames quickly spread, panic ensued, and many passengers jumped into the river, including women and children—many of whom could not swim.
Rescue Efforts Underway
Red Cross teams and provincial authorities have launched a large-scale search operation for survivors. Around 100 people have been rescued, some of whom are being treated at an improvised shelter at Mbandaka town hall, with several suffering severe burns.
Recurring Tragedy
Deadly boat accidents are common in the DRC, where limited infrastructure forces people to rely heavily on overcrowded and poorly maintained river vessels. Most boats lack basic safety measures, and rescue operations are frequently hampered by a lack of training and equipment.
This tragedy follows several similar incidents in recent months:
In December, a ferry capsized in northeastern DRC, killing at least 38.
In October, a boat sank in Lake Kivu, claiming 78 lives.
Authorities are urging improved regulation of river transport and greater enforcement of safety standards to prevent future disasters.
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