The EAC legislative body, EALA, on Sunday sent its condolences to the Government of Zanzibar and citizens of Tanzania, following a tragedy at sea that occurred over the weekend in Zanzibar.

According to media reports, more than 240 people were killed early Saturday when a crowded ferry sank off Tanzania’s coast. Officials say that up to 600 people were reportedly rescued.

EALA is currently meeting in Rwanda for their ordinary session that is expected to proceed up to the end of this week.

"On my own behalf and on behalf of EALA, I wish to express my regrets and heartfelt condolences to President Dr. Ali Mohammed Shein, the Government of Zanzibar and citizens of Tanzania, following the sea tragedy,” EALA Speaker Abdirahin H. Abdi, said in a statement.

The Speaker noted that the tragedy affects everyone in the region since Zanzibar is a significant segment in the economy of the East African Community.

He added that EALA shares grief with the families and relatives of those who lost their loved ones and prays to God that they find comfort during this period of grief.

"We thank the Almighty God for saving lives and pray for the speedy recovery of the casualties so that they may continue with the day-to-day activities of building the nation and the East African region at large”.

Abdi also welcomed the steps taken so far by the governments of Zanzibar and Tanzania in the rescue efforts.

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