About 70 passengers who were stranded overnight on Lake Malawi have been safely rescued after their boat, Ibanda Injema, developed engine problems during a trip from Nkhata Bay to Likoma and Chizumulu Islands.
The incident happened after the boat’s engines reportedly took in water mid-journey, leaving passengers — including children and goods — drifting helplessly for nearly 20 hours.
According to one of the passengers, Chrissy Mwase, panic spread as the boat stopped moving and calls for help were sent out. “We were scared because it had been many hours just floating. We needed help fast,” she said.
Rescue efforts were led by a health department vessel from Likoma, which managed to tow the stranded boat to safety. Likoma District Commissioner Abubeker Nkhoma confirmed the rescue, saying a full count of passengers will be verified upon arrival at Chizumulu Island.
Officials later confirmed that Ibanda Injema is a Mozambican vessel that regularly operates between Nkhata Bay and the islands. While most passengers were reported safe, some appeared weak after spending the night without food.
Authorities are expected to assess the boat’s condition before it resumes operations.
📍Source: MBC Digital
