50 die as boat capsizes in Congo river

About 50 people have died after a boat capsized on a river in the Democratic Republic of Congo, officials say. More than 60 people survived when the boat tipped over as it was travelling from Monkoto to Mbandaka.

The Congo River is the second longest in Africa, and, with a maximum depth of more than 220 metres, the world’s deepest.

In a country with few roads or railways, it is a vital trade route and the best way for many people to traverse the Democratic Republic of Congo.Boats on the river are often overcrowded and accidents are common.

Forty-two villagers who were fleeing violence between an armed group and security forces drowned last month after their boat capsized on the Ubangi, a tributary of the Congo River.