People enjoy Christmas celebrations at Pirates Public Beach in Mombasa County, Saturday, December 25, 2021. [Kelvin Karani, Standard]
Mining, blue economy and maritime minister Salim Mvrya has banned all activity along the Indian Ocean coast after 5pm.
Speaking to the media in Diani, Kwale County, Mr Mvrya said no swimming or boating in the sea will be allowed after 5pm.
CS has also warned boat operators to ensure their vessels are inspected and certified before boarding a boat by holiday makers during the holiday season.
“It is unacceptable to carry passengers while on vacation in the Indian Ocean without a lifesaver jacket or other safety equipment. All boats must be inspected to ensure compliance before being allowed on board. Yes,” said Mvurya.
Mvurya said the ministry and tourism sector stakeholders are taking steps to ensure the safety of those holidaying along the Indian Ocean beaches.
Mvurya’s instructions came after a boat capsized on Sunday night at Jomo Kenyatta Public Beach, commonly known as ‘Pirate Beach’. The accident drowned two of him at 5:40 p.m.
The deceased Abdulshakr Haji, 55, and Mohammed Sabir, 35, were memons and were in Mombasa for the Christmas revelry before the tragedy.
A family of 12 from Nairobi had booked accommodation at a nearby beach hotel. One of her family members is in a hospital in Mombasa in critical condition. However, all six rescued children are said to be in stable condition.
The Kenya Maritime Authority has stepped up its holiday beach safety awareness campaign to raise public awareness of safety measures.