By Eddah Waithaka
Salim Mvurya, Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy, Maritime Affairs, has stressed the importance of boat owners and operators being vigilant when using their vessels on lakes rivers.
Mvurya stressed the need for boat owners and operators to be extra cautious due to the current heavy rains and flooding in various parts of the country.
In a press release issued on Monday 29th, the ministry said: “The safety of people using waterways remains the government’s top priority and we advise boat owners, operators, passengers, fishermen and the general public to follow safety measures”.
The statement also said that the crew and passengers, including children, are required to wear life jackets while on board the vessels.
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“Enforcement action will be taken by the relevant government agencies to ensure strict compliance with the rules,” the statement said.
The CS urged Kenyans to keep a close eye on weather conditions. They should avoid crossing rivers during periods of heavy rain or strong winds.
“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.”
Boat operators were instructed to navigate safely by keeping a safe distance from other vessels to avoid colliding.
“Communicate immediately with other vessels or relevant authorities for emergency assistance when in distress,” he advised.
He also said that Kenyans should regularly monitor water levels 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 to flooding across the country, according to government spokesman Isaac Mwaura.
This figure does not include the Mai Mahiu tragedy. At least 42 people have been confirmed dead.
In the Rift Valley, 21 people have been confirmed dead and 29 injured, while 21 people are still missing due to the continuing rains and the flash floods that have caused.
In Nairobi, 32 people have been confirmed dead. Some 28,484 households have been displaced, affecting 185,297 people.
