This archive report was first published on 18 July 2021.
On July 18, 2021, a dramatic rescue operation took place in the Indian Ocean off the coast of Lamu County, Kenya, where seven Tanzanian sailors were rescued after their ship, MV Al Feroz, sank.
The sailors, identified as Swaleh Ramadhani Katambo, Mganga Mgoya, Abas Muharami, Msafiri Abdallah, Omari Jalala, Ibrahim Matoye Tumaini, and Mohamed Salim, were on their way from Dar es Salaam, Tanzania to Kismayu, Somalia when their ship encountered rough seas and sank.
According to Loonena Naisho, the Director-General of the Kenya Coast Guard Service (KCGS), the rescue operation was a collaborative effort between his team and the Kenya Navy, who worked tirelessly to save the sailors and their cargo.
Naisho urged sailors to exercise caution and avoid areas known for rough seas, especially during this time of year when the ocean is prone to strong winds and currents.
"By following these guidelines, we can prevent such accidents, disasters, and damage to the marine environment," Naisho said.
The sailors were grateful for the quick response of the Kenyan authorities and expressed their appreciation for the rescue operation.
"We called for help, and soon they arrived to rescue us. Although our ship sank, we are grateful to be alive," said Swaleh Ramadhani Katambo, the spokesperson for the sailors.
The Lamu County Commissioner, Irungu Macharia, assured the rescued sailors that they would be assisted in returning to Tanzania.
