The vessel was operating on inland waters. Rescue and recovery work has continued since it overturned, with authorities still searching for the missing and working to establish how many were aboard.

Recurring causes of boat disasters on Africa's inland waters include overloading, insufficient life-saving equipment and sailing in bad weather. Poorly kept passenger manifests often delay any accurate headcount in the immediate aftermath.

Southern Africa, Zimbabwe included, hosts Chinese communities engaged in commerce and distribution. No link between this accident and Chinese casualties has been confirmed, and Hwagyo Sibo does not relay unverified speculation.

With the search under way, the toll may change. We will follow the official count as it is updated.