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KMA issues stern warning to boat operators after Lake Baringo accident

Kenya Coast Guard Service officials conducting search and rescue operations.

By Farhiya Hussein | 24 Apr 2024

The boat was carrying 23 individuals at the time of the accident.

Boat owners and operators have been urged to comply with maritime safety regulations amid the ongoing heavy rainfall in the country.

The Kenya Maritime Authority, while issuing an update on the April 21 Lake Baringo boat accident, highlighted the importance of safety measures.

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“We reiterate our earnest plea to all boat owners and operators to strictly adhere to maritime safety regulations. Ensuring compliance is paramount to safeguarding the lives of passengers and preventing further tragedies,” said Engineer Martin Dzombo Munga, Director-General of the Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA).

The KMA reported that a boat travelling from Salabani Beach on the southeastern side of Lake Baringo headed for a church on Central Island, tragically sank in the middle of the water.

“The boat was carrying 23 individuals at the time of the accident. Following the capsizing, 17 individuals were rescued. Regrettably, one individual later succumbed to the ordeal,” the statement read.

The agency said that they are currently investigating the cause of the boat accident.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones affected by this incident. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this difficult time,” said Dzombo.

Following the incident, a joint search and rescue operation, coordinated by the Authority in collaboration with various agencies including Baringo County, the Kenya Coast Guard Service, the Kenya Wildlife Service, the Kenya Red Cross, the Lake Baringo Boat Owners Association, the Beach Management Units, and the local community, managed to retrieve six bodies.