By Staff Reporter
HARARE — The Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) has declared Friday, August 21 a “national” citizens’ day of mourning for victims of the Lake Kariba ferry disaster, calling for accountability over the tragedy.
ARTUZ said the reported loss of about 84 lives, including children, should not be treated as statistics, arguing that the victims were parents, teachers, learners, workers and members of communities.
In a statement, the teachers’ union said the disaster should force the government to confront the state of public infrastructure and systems responsible for protecting citizens.
“Questions may be asked about the condition and capacity of the vessel, safety regulations, passenger limits, regulatory oversight, emergency preparedness but the overall response to the disaster is our current government under the incapable leadership,” ARTUZ said.
The union said Zimbabweans deserved safe transport, functional infrastructure and a government that protected citizens, particularly those in remote communities who rely on public transport to access basic services and opportunities.
ARTUZ also criticised the government’s response to affected communities, saying symbolic gestures and limited assistance were inadequate for families dealing with the loss of loved ones.
“At a time when families are grieving and communities are traumatised, symbolic gestures and limited assistance cannot substitute for meaningful intervention, accountability and long-term solutions,” the union said.
ARTUZ called on authorities to provide support to affected families and urgently upgrade transport and public infrastructure serving remote communities.
“No community should be forced to risk its people’s lives simply because of inadequate infrastructure,” the union said.
The union said the government’s response should be judged by concrete measures taken to prevent similar disasters rather than official visits and statements.
As part of the day of mourning, ARTUZ called on teachers, workers, students, churches, civil society organisations and communities to light candles, wear black, hold peaceful placard demonstrations, observe moments of silence and pray for the victims.
The union urged participants to observe the day peacefully and respectfully while honouring the bereaved families.
“Kariba must not become another forgotten tragedy.
We demand a State that values every life,” ARTUZ said.
