Updated 21 July 2012

Another overcrowded ferry sank near the Indian Ocean near Zanzibar on Wednesday 18 July 2012.  Workers have rescued 145 people but 68 individuals have been confirmed dead and several are still missing.  It has been reported that the ferry, with a maximum carrying capacity of 250 people, was carrying 290 people. The ferry was sailing from mainland Tanzania to, Zanzibar a popular tourist beach destination.

Survivors have told the BBC that the crew gave them no instructions on how to evacuate and merely told them to calm down. They say there was only one exit and that many people were trapped and went down with the ship when it sank.

Although rescuers continue to look for survivors, hopes are fading of finding any more survivors.  It is said that the sea is very rough, and it is difficult for anyone to survive in such conditions.

Seven KSI Jamaat Task Force - Volunteers from Dar es Salaam organized a Rescue Boat and sailed to Zanzibar on Wednesday. The Boat was generously offered by Br. Amin Valji, the Director of The Pharmacy. They participated in the Zanzibar Boat disaster rescue mission and were in the sea for about 48 hours. Until Thursday, the Task Force had recovered 22 bodies. They were assisted by three crew members of the Boat and two divers from mainland.

We commend the Volunteers of KSI Jamaat Task Force, the Crew Members and the Divers for the gallant mission and for the services to humanity.

This tragedy follows a previous ferry accident that killed over 200 people last September due to the ferry being overcrowded. 

The World Federation is saddened to hear of this tragedy and prays for the families of the victims and for the safety of those that are missing. 

The World Federation and The Africa Federation is planning to send assistance in a form of food ration to the victims and their families in Zanzibar, especially to assist them in this holy month of Ramadhan.