Zimpapers Logo

chief said.
The passengers were returning from a funeral on the other side of Lake Togo, about 45 km (28 miles) from the capital Lome, when the accident took place late on Sunday.
A survivor, whose name was not mentioned, told a local radio station that they were surprised by the violent winds which always precede torrential rains in the tropical region.
“When the winds hit, the largest boat carrying some men and drums capsized first. Then two or three other smaller boats carrying women and children also capsized,” the survivor said, adding that he lost three of his children who were with him.
A spokesman for the prime minister’s office said they were aware of the reported toll but could not confirm the figure. The prime minister was due to visit the scene yesterday.
Poor roads and railways force many in Africa to use the continent’s lakes and rivers for transport, but accidents are common, frequently due to over-loading and poor maintenance. – Reuters.