Two people drowned on Saturday in separate incidents in Suba North and Homa Bay Town constituencies during their fishing expedition in Lake Victoria.
The first incident involved the drowning of Justus Ouma, 28, who died near Ringiti Island in Suba North.
Ouma drowned some 150 metres away from the island when he and a colleague had departed from the lake shore for fishing.
It is reported that he slipped as he was casting fishing net in the lake.
Ringiti Island Beach Management Unit treasurer Dan Sure said the incident occurred at about 3pm when the two fishermen were inside the boat.
“Ouma lost balance, collapsed in the lake before drowning. His colleague tried to rescue him but strong winds pushed him away,” Sure said.
Other fishermen also paddled to the place, but found he had already drowned.
The BMU officer said they are engaging other fishermen and local divers to search and retrieve the body.
“We are mobilising colleagues and some local divers to help us get back the body for interment,” he added.
In the second incident, Calvin Ochieng drowned near Lela beach in Homa Bay town when he was looking for fish.
The 26- year-old also died after he slipped from the boat which they were using for fishing together with other four colleagues.
Asego sub-location assistant chief Tom Ondiek said they have started looking for Ochieng's body.
The administrator called for the deceased's family to remain calm as they engage in search.
“Already we have people who help us in search of the body,” he said.
The administrator advised fishermen to adhere to maritime safety measures to avoid causing accidents.
“We want residents and fishermen to avoid going into the lake during strong winds. They should understand the weather pattern,” he added.
(edited by Amol Awuor)
