President Lazarus Chakwera and First Lady Monica Chakwera have expressed their sorrow over the tragic loss of 11 Malawians in the Likoma boat accident.

In a statement, the president conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and pledged to support efforts aimed at preventing similar tragedies in the future.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Transport and Public Works has confirmed that search operations will continue, following three search missions conducted at the weekend that led to the recovery of 11 bodies.

Speaking to Zodiak, Ministry spokesperson Watson Maingo reinforced government’s plans to address such incidents by constructing ports to facilitate proper docking for ships.

Reports indicate that the boat sank after water surged in through a hole in the hull.

The ministry of transport has put the blame on the operator, saying the boat was too small and not certified for passenger service.

The people were enroute to board MV Chilembwe which is currently the main public transport vessel on Lake Malawi as MV Ilala, the most reliable ship, is undergoing servicing.