In Kenya, MV Likoni ferry malfunctioned while docking — Nation Kenya
In Mombasa, Kenya, the MV Likoni ferry had difficulty safely approaching the ramp on the mainland side of the Likoni Channel crossing after one of its steering engines failed. The incident occurred on September 11 at around 5:30 p.m., as the vessel was traveling from the island part of the city to Likoni, Nation Kenya reports.
According to Kenya Ferry Services operations manager Paul Koech, the malfunction complicated the vessel's maneuvering and safe docking. The incident occurred amid heavy rain and high tide. As the ferry approached the shore, some passengers tried to leave it: some people jumped into the water to swim to land.
To help MV Likoni, the ferry service crew deployed another vessel, MV Kwale. The ferry was brought under control and safely docked, after which it was withdrawn from service for inspection and maintenance.
Safety measures
Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir said that county authorities would hold a meeting with the Kenya Ports Authority, which, according to the publication, operates the ferry services, to discuss strengthening safety in the channel. The county also proposed involving its inspectors in the existing safety measures.
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County Commissioner Mohamed Noor said he intended to increase the police presence at the crossing during the morning and evening rush hours. He urged passengers not to rush while boarding ferries so as not to put other people at risk.
Pressure on the crossing
The Likoni Channel serves more than 6,000 vehicles and over 300,000 pedestrians every day. Likoni Member of Parliament Mishi Mboko called on the port authority to address gaps in the safety system and restore the Mtongwe ferry service, which could reduce pressure on the crossing. She recalled that the channel is a deep route for vessels heading to Kilindini Harbour.
Two months ago, President William Ruto announced the allocation of 3 billion Kenyan shillings to purchase a new ferry, expected in December. Also, on Saturday evening, the MV Blue Pineapple pleasure boat capsized in Tudor Creek: two people died and five others were rescued. A week earlier, another boat capsized near Watamu due to a sudden change in weather, killing two people and sending five tourists to hospital.
