Four Coast Guard Officers Survive Boat Capsize in Kisumu

On Friday night, four Coast Guard officers narrowly escaped death after their boat capsized at Asat Beach in Kisumu County. The officers were returning from a presidential function on Mageta Island when their vessel encountered a technical failure, leading to the accident.

The Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA) swiftly mobilized a rescue operation, which successfully saved all crew members. Director General Martin Muga, who spoke to the press, described the incident as a close call. "My officers were out during the night monitoring the situation, and we are relieved that there were no fatalities as all the crew members were rescued," Muga confirmed.

The boat capsized around 8 p.m., leaving the officers stranded and communication cut off. It wasn’t until 1 a.m. that the rescue team managed to establish contact and secure their safe return. "This is a happy day for us because, at one point, we didn’t know what was happening out there. It re-emphasizes the need and urgency for a dedicated rescue center in the area," Muga added.

Muga also disclosed that the government is planning to enhance safety measures on Lake Victoria by providing rescue boats and ambulances, a move aimed at reducing the frequency of such life-threatening incidents.

The near-tragedy comes just a day after President William Ruto expressed grave concerns over the alarming number of deaths among fishermen on Lake Victoria. According to the President, nearly 5,000 fishermen lose their lives annually due to substandard equipment and inadequate safety measures.

As this latest incident highlights the risks faced by those navigating the lake, the call for better safety infrastructure and resources has never been more urgent. The government's planned interventions could be a critical step in preventing future accidents and ensuring the safety of those who depend on Lake Victoria for their livelihoods.