MOSHI. FIVE members of the same family have drowned after a boat carrying worshippers capsized in Nyumba ya Mungu Dam in Moshi District, Kilimanjaro Region, while eight other passengers were rescued.
The victims were travelling from Chemchem Village to Msasani Village to attend a religious conference when the boat overturned, according to Acting Kilimanjaro Regional Fire and Rescue Commander Jeremiah Mkomagi.
The deceased have been identified as Maria Andrea, Yustina Lazaro, Raima Andrea, Happy Andrea and Kelvin Andrea.
ALSO READ: AU states push industrial drive to unlock Africa’s economic potential
Mr Mkomagi said strong winds whipped up large waves, causing the boat to overturn and sink.
Rescue teams managed to pull eight passengers to safety following the accident.
Authorities have urged people using water transport to monitor weather conditions closely and observe safety measures, particularly when travelling during strong winds and rough waters.
The warning comes amid renewed concerns over the safety of passengers using boats and other water transport, with authorities calling for greater caution to prevent similar tragedies.