At least 12 people have died and dozens remain missing after a vessel carrying traders capsized on Lake Kivu in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
The vessel, carrying more than 50 passengers, overturned near Idjwi Island in South Kivu province over the week-end. Félix Habiragi, chief of Kisheke village, said about 15 people had been rescued. The cause of the accident was not immediately known.
Local administrator Muhindo Ntambuka Pascal said the vessel was transporting fish traders and goods from Bwina on Idjwi Island to Boza. Boat accidents are frequent in the country, where waterways are a major means of transport. Vessels are often overloaded, while many passengers travel without life jackets despite efforts by authorities to enforce safety requirements.