Lake Kivu, the region’s natural jewel, was recently the scene of suspensions of navigation of two boats by the provincial authorities of South Kivu. Indeed, following technical irregularities and non-compliance with navigation measures, the local government took the decision to suspend the activities of the MV Binza de Minova and the MV Aganze 2. Strong decisions that come in a context marked by the tragic sinking of the MERDI boat, recalling the urgent need to guarantee the safety of navigation on the lake.
The provincial Minister of Transport stressed that the MV Binza presented significant technical irregularities, endangering the lives of passengers. For its part, the MV Aganze 2 was suspended for non-compliance with safety measures and exceeding the authorized number of passengers. As the navigation certificates of these two boats were either expired or did not comply with the standards in force, the authorities took this suspension measure to protect the lives of lake users.
These suspensions come after the tragic sinking of the MERDI boat, which caused the death of several dozen people and shook the region. A dramatic event that highlighted the flaws in the control of the safety of boats on Lake Kivu. The search continues to find the missing persons and shed light on the circumstances of this tragedy.
Faced with these events, the governor of South Kivu, Jean Jacques Purusi, has taken firm measures to strengthen the safety of navigation in the region. It is crucial that safety standards are strictly respected and that the competent authorities ensure that boats meet the safety standards required to ensure the protection of passengers and property.
It is therefore essential that the authorities put in place effective control mechanisms and dissuasive sanctions to ensure that such tragedies do not happen again. The safety of navigation on Lake Kivu must be an absolute priority, in order to preserve the lives of the inhabitants of the region and travelers who use these sea routes.
In conclusion, the suspensions of navigation of the MV Binza and MV Aganze 2 vessels are a strong signal sent by the authorities of South Kivu to recall the crucial importance of maritime safety. Let us hope that these measures will contribute to strengthening vigilance and preventing potential tragic accidents in the future on Lake Kivu.