-
In a statement, the CS said boat crew and passengers including children must wear life jackets while on board vessels.
-
“Enforcement measures are being taken by relevant government agencies to ensure strict compliance,” he said.
Image: FILE
Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs CS Salim Mvurya has urged boat owners and operators to exercise extreme caution when using the vessels on lakes or rivers.
Mvurya said the ongoing heavy rains and flooding in various parts of the country call for great care to avoid possible danger.
“The safety of persons using water transport remains the government’s top priority, and we advise boat owners, operators, passengers, fisher folk and the general public to observe safety measures,” he stated.
In a statement, the CS said boat crew and passengers including children must wear life jackets while on board vessels.
“Enforcement measures are being taken by relevant government agencies to ensure strict compliance,” he said.
He said Kenyans should also monitor the weather conditions continuously and avoid crossing rivers during periods of heavy rainfall or strong winds.
Mvurya further said boat owners and operators must ensure proper working conditions for their vessels.
“Unserviceable vessels must not be operated at any given time,” he stated.
“Never overload vessels. Adhere to maximum passenger capacity limits. Enforcement measures will be taken to ensure strict compliance.”
He added that boat operators must navigate safely by maintaining a safe distance from other vessels to prevent collisions.
“Communicate immediately with other vessels or relevant authorities for emergency assistance when in distress,” he advised.
He further said Kenyans should monitor water levels regularly and be prepared to move to safer areas as advised by the government and agencies involved in emergency rescue operations.
Mvurya said his ministry remains committed to promoting maritime safety.
So far, Kenya has lost 103 people due to the flooding across the country, according to government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura.
Speaking in Mombasa, Mwaura said the number of casualties could be higher.
The figure does not include the Mai Mahiu tragedy where at least 42 have been confirmed dead.
In Rift Valley, 21 people have been confirmed dead, with 29 injured while 21 are missing because of the ongoing rains and consequent flash floods.
In Nairobi, 32 people have been confirmed dead.
Some 28,484 households have been displaced with 185,297 people affected.