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Ghana: 15 dead, including 11 children, in boat accident
Fifteen people drowned on Saturday when a boat capsized on Lake Volta in northeastern Ghana, the Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) announced on Sunday.
“Unfortunately, 11 of the victims are children aged between two and 14 (five boys and six girls),” the GMA stated in a press release. The boat was traveling from the village of Okuma to Bovime. Four adults survived the accident, according to Ghanaian authorities.
A specialized investigation team, including members of the navy, has been dispatched to the scene to determine the precise causes of the capsizing and to identify any possible breaches of safety regulations. Early reports suggest the boat was overloaded.
The GMA announced that an accident investigation committee will be set up jointly with the Ministry of Transport. A strengthened safety inspection operation along the shores of Lake Volta will also be launched to ensure compliance with passenger limits and the mandatory use of life jackets.
The GMA offered its deepest condolences to the bereaved families and urged local residents not to board non-compliant vessels.