A devastating incident unfolded off the northern coast of Mozambique as a ferry carrying approximately 130 passengers, including women and children, tragically sank. The death toll has now exceeded 100, with 20 individuals still missing in the aftermath of the disaster.

According to reports from The Guardian, the ferry was en route from Lunga to an island in Mozambique's Nampula region on Sunday. Passengers aboard the vessel were reportedly fleeing the area to escape a cholera outbreak, adding urgency to their journey.

President Philippe Nyusi confirmed the heartbreaking news, expressing condolences to the affected families and vowing that the government would undertake necessary measures following a comprehensive assessment of the situation.

The office of the secretary of state for Nampula province released a statement, revealing that among the deceased were many children. While 10 individuals have been rescued, the search continues for the approximately 20 people still unaccounted for.

Authorities initially indicated that the ferry capsized due to the overwhelming number of passengers it was carrying, unable to withstand the load.

A distressing video circulating on social media captured the aftermath of the tragedy, depicting numerous bodies strewn along a beach—a stark reminder of the human toll of the maritime disaster.

Portuguese broadcaster RTP reported that the ferry's intended route was from Lunga to the coast of Nampula on Mozambique Island.

The Nampula province has been grappling with cholera outbreaks since January of the previous year, with the recent incident underscoring the region's ongoing challenges in combating the disease and ensuring the safety of its residents.