A three-year-old child has tragically died, and five others are missing after a boat capsized while crossing the Shire River from Chikuse Island in the Makhwira area of Chikwawa District yesterday.

The boat, which was carrying approximately 20 people, overturned under unknown circumstances.

According to Leah Malimbasa, spokesperson for the Chikwawa District Council, efforts to locate the missing individuals are ongoing.

“After receiving the report this afternoon, the council mobilized a search and rescue team which is currently looking for the missing people,” said Malimbasa.

The search and rescue operation has been challenging due to the river’s conditions.

Emergency services are working tirelessly to find the missing persons and recover any additional victims.