Kilifi steps up beach safety after spike in drowning cases

The Kilifi government has conducted a beach safety and prevention drill for ocean and beach users at Vidazini Beach in Bofa to raise awareness and reduce drowning incidents.

The exercise, held in partnership with the Kenya Red Cross, Captain Andy, Stella Maris and other stakeholders, targeted holidaymakers expected to flock to the Coast this August following school closures.

According to the Kenya Red Cross, Kilifi has recorded 21 beach drowning incidents this year alone, with 16 of them resulting in death.

Chief Officer for Disaster Management and Prevention Irene Opicho said the county has recruited and trained over 100 lifeguards to cover all Beach Management Units from Mtwapa to Ngomeni in Magarini.

 “We have noted drowning cases that have become alarmingly frequent. An example is the recent tragedy in Watamu where five fishermen drowned, three of whom remain missing,” she said.

Opicho announced plans to construct watchtowers along Kilifi’s 260km coastline to enhance surveillance for beach operators.

“The county has three fully equipped patrol boats. However, they are not enough, and we appeal to well-wishers to support the initiative,” she said.

Kenya Red Cross Kilifi branch coordinator Kawthar Alwy confirmed the drowning statistics and said the organisation was working to ensure such tragedies do not recur.

“We have witnessed at least 21 drowning cases this year alone, and Kenya Red Cross is providing support to ensure we do not have more incidences reported,” he said.

Samuel Muthya, director of Stella Maris Kenya — an organisation that provides marine life-saving skills — said they have already trained over 700 marine users in Mombasa BMUs and are in talks with Kilifi county to extend lifeguard training to all BMUs in the region.

Kilifi Deputy Governor Flora Chibule, who graced the event, said the county has become a popular destination for tourists and holidaymakers.

She urged visitors to register with the department of disaster management during their stay to ensure their families’ safety.