Kilifi ramps up beach safety efforts after surge in drowning cases
The exercise, organised in partnership with the Kenya Red Cross and other stakeholders, targets families and visitors expected to flock to the beaches during the August school holidays.
Kilifi County has intensified safety measures along its coastline following a worrying rise in drowning incidents, with officials confirming 21 cases this year alone.
The most recent tragedy occurred in Watamu, where five fishermen drowned and three remain missing.
More To Read
- Fresh evidence forces delay in cult leader Paul Mackenzie’s trial linked to 400 deaths
- Three shallow graves found in Kilifi's Kwa Binzaro village as fears of cult killings resurface
- Malindi embraces inclusive tourism as local, foreign investors open doors to community
- Kilifi set to phase out KWS' control of Malindi and Watamu marine parks - Governor Mung’aro
- Fears of new cult deaths in Kilifi as court allows DCI to dig up Chakama Ranch's suspected mass graves
- Search continues for missing Watamu brothers lost at sea amid calls for rescue boats
The county government conducted beach safety and prevention drills at Vidazini Beach in Bofa, Kilifi Town, aimed at sensitising ocean users and holidaymakers on water safety.
The exercise, organised in partnership with the Kenya Red Cross and other stakeholders, targets families and visitors expected to flock to the beaches during the August school holidays.
“We have so many cases of fishermen going to sea and never returning. At the moment, we are still searching for three from the Watamu incident. We have recruited and trained 140 lifeguards, covering all Beach Management Units from Mtwapa to Ngomeni. They have the necessary skills, and we plan to conduct further training to strengthen their capacity,” said Irene Opicho, Kilifi’s Chief Officer for Disaster Management and Prevention.
Some of the lifeguards recruited by Kilifi County Government to help tame drowning incidents. (Farhiya Hussein)
Opicho added that the county is planning to construct watchtowers along its 260-kilometre shoreline to improve surveillance, but admitted that resources remain a challenge.
“We have three fully equipped patrol boats, but that is not enough. We appeal to well-wishers to support us,” she said.
Kenya Red Cross Kilifi Branch Coordinator, Kawthar Alwy, confirmed the alarming statistics, noting that some fishermen have been missing for months.
“Out of the 21 incidents reported this year, 16 people have died, and the total casualty figure stands at 34. Two fishermen have been missing since June, and one since May,” she said.
Director of Stella Maris Kenya, Samwel Muthya, an organisation providing marine life-saving skills, said they have trained over 700 marine users in Mombasa and are now in discussions with Kilifi County to ensure all BMUs receive lifeguard training.
Some of the lifeguards recruited by Kilifi County Government to help tame drowning incidents. (Farhiya Hussein)
Kilifi Deputy Governor Flora Chibule, who attended the event, urged holidaymakers to prioritise safety during their visits.
“Kilifi has become a top destination for tourists and holidaymakers. We encourage all visitors to register with the Department of Disaster Management so that their families’ safety is assured,” she said.
Authorities hope the heightened awareness, combined with expanded training and resources, will reduce the number of drowning incidents and protect both locals and visitors enjoying Kilifi’s beaches.
Top Stories Today
