Overloaded ferry capsizes on Lake Kariba leaving 44 dead

A big passenger boat called a ferry was carrying people across Lake Kariba in Zimbabwe.

The boat, named Mbuya Nehanda, was carrying many more people than it was allowed to carry — the law said no more than 90.

On Tuesday, the boat tipped over in rough weather, and lots of people ended up in the water.

Sadly, at least 44 people have died, and search teams are still looking for anyone who may be missing.

Earlier, officials had said 15 people had died and 27 people were still missing.

Rescuers in speedboats and a helicopter saved 77 people, first taking them to a small island for safety.

The ferry is very important to families who live near the lake, because it helps them reach Kariba town and other communities.

Leaders are trying to find out exactly why the boat tipped over — it may have been too full, or the waves may have been too strong, or the engine may have failed.

Government officials have suggested calling the accident a national disaster because it hurt so many people.