Rev. Wilfred Dimingu
Zimbabwe Council of Churches
WCC member churches in Zimbabwe
Geneva, 18 August 2026
Dear Rev. Dimingu,
Dear sisters and brothers in Zimbabwe,
“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” (Matthew 5:4)
On behalf of the World Council of Churches, I extend our heartfelt solidarity to the people of Zimbabwe, and especially to the families and communities affected by the tragic ferry disaster on Lake Kariba.
We have learned with profound sadness that the death toll from the capsizing of the ferry has risen to at least 92 people, with search and recovery operations continuing. Among those who have lost their lives are 18 children.
Behind these numbers are mothers and fathers, children and young people, relatives, friends, neighbours and members of communities whose lives have been changed forever. We …
Rev. Wilfred Dimingu
Zimbabwe Council of Churches
WCC member churches in Zimbabwe
Geneva, 18 August 2026
Dear Rev. Dimingu,
Dear sisters and brothers in Zimbabwe,
“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” (Matthew 5:4)
On behalf of the World Council of Churches, I extend our heartfelt solidarity to the people of Zimbabwe, and especially to the families and communities affected by the tragic ferry disaster on Lake Kariba.
We have learned with profound sadness that the death toll from the capsizing of the ferry has risen to at least 92 people, with search and recovery operations continuing. Among those who have lost their lives are 18 children.
Behind these numbers are mothers and fathers, children and young people, relatives, friends, neighbours and members of communities whose lives have been changed forever. We remember especially those who continue to await news of loved ones; those who survived the tragedy and now carry the trauma of what they witnessed; and all those engaged in the demanding work of rescue, recovery and caring for the bereaved.
At this painful moment, we stand alongside the churches and people of Zimbabwe. We join you in prayer, mourning, and compassion. We pray that those who grieve may experience the presence of God in tangible ways, and that the churches may be places of refuge, consolation, and practical support for all those affected.
We also hope and pray that an official inquiry will be undertaken, that justice and accountability will be pursued for the victims and their families, and that a comprehensive review of the policies and safety measures governing the protection of civilians will follow, so that such a tragedy may not be repeated.
May the God of compassion draw near to all who mourn. May God receive those who have passed into eternal peace, strengthen those who grieve, comfort the survivors, and grant courage, wisdom, and resilience to all who are responding to this tragedy.
Yours in Christ,
Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay
General Secretary
World Council of Churches