MWANZA: THREE people have died after a passenger boat caught fire on Lake Victoria while travelling from Gozba Island to Mwanza City.
Acting Mwanza Regional Fire and Rescue Commander Elisa Mugisha said the incident occurred on July 9 near Lyamwenge Island in Ukerewe District, Mwanza Region.
The deceased include two men aged about 70, a 45-year-old woman and a 10-year-old boy identified as Godson Stephen. Authorities said the victims’ bodies are yet to be formally identified.
Mr Mugisha said the boat, with registration number TMZ 012807, is owned by Paschal Ng’hwang’hwa. It was carrying more than 50 passengers when it caught fire mid-journey.
The Mwanza Regional Fire and Rescue Force rescued 48 people from the vessel after some passengers and crew jumped into the lake wearing life jackets to escape the flames.
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The fire completely destroyed the boat and cargo estimated at 6.5 tonnes.
Mr Mugisha said investigations into the cause of the fire are underway and are being conducted by the Fire and Rescue Force in collaboration with other relevant authorities.
He conveyed condolences to the bereaved families and urged boat owners and operators to strictly observe maritime safety regulations.
He also called on vessel owners to ensure boats are equipped with adequate life-saving equipment, undergo regular inspections and comply fully with safety requirements to reduce the risk of accidents and other emergencies.