The Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA) has launched a major project worth Sh4.6 billion to improve safety on Lake Victoria. The aim is to cut down accidents and, ultimately, save lives.
Lake Victoria has seen many tragic incidents, with vessels, especially boats, often at the center of these accidents. Over the past decade, out of 420 accidents reported, 146 resulted in fatalities, claiming the lives of 252 people. Alarmingly, around 80% of these deaths were due to drowning.
Oliver Main, the Deputy Director of Maritime Safety at KMA, mentioned that the organization is dedicated to tackling these issues head-on. The funds will address several factors affecting fishermen across Busia, Siaya, Kisumu, Homa Bay, and Migori counties, all of which border the lake. Problems include:
– Poor-quality vessels
– Lack of trained personnel operating boats
– Marine pollution
– Decreasing fish stocks
To enhance safety, the project will build rescue centers in these counties. Main pointed out that currently, fishermen must travel to Mombasa to access KMA services. This new initiative aims to bring those services directly to their communities.
KMA plans to enforce standards for boat construction and to provide training for about 400 local youth. This training will empower them to manufacture life jackets, reducing the average cost from Sh3000 to Sh1500. The project also includes training for coxswains, many of whom currently operate without licenses.
“We recognize that these coxswains have skills, but their training has been informal. We will help them understand pollution control and vessel safety,” Main said. The initiative is set to provide official certificates for these operators, validating their experience.
Henry Mwasaru, KMA’s Regional Director for Nyanza, confirmed that a main research and rescue center is underway in Kisumu. This center will oversee KMA’s activities in the region, ensuring that all vessels operating on Lake Victoria meet necessary standards.
County Commissioner Ronald Mwiwawi from Homa Bay highlighted the urgent need for change, pointing out that approximately five people lose their lives each month on the lake. He emphasized the importance of using standard boats to prevent further tragedies.
Local leaders, like Edward Oremo, Chairman of the Homa Bay County Beach Management Network, expressed hope that the project will significantly improve the lives of fishermen. “Many have drowned due to expensive life jackets and the absence of trained operators. This initiative will motivate us all,” he said.
In summary, KMA’s ambitious project aims to transform safety on Lake Victoria by addressing key issues, improving local support, and cultivating a safer fishing community. This effort reflects a growing trend in many regions striving for better safety standards in maritime activities, highlighting the need for continuous improvement in regulations and local support systems.
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The Kenya Maritime AuthoritySafety in the Lakes, Lake Victoria, Homa Bay County Beach Management Network
