This archive report was first published on 24 December 2021.
For years, patrolling Lake Victoria has been a daunting task for police officers in counties bordering the lake, particularly in Homa Bay and Migori. The challenge has been the lack of government vessels to respond to emergencies, forcing them to rely on privately owned boats with varying levels of cooperation.
However, the situation has improved with the establishment of the Kenya Coast Guard Station in Mbita town, Homa Bay County. The station, officially opened on December 3, 2021, is equipped with boats and security officers to aid patrol in Lake Victoria.
According to Edward Oremo, the Homa Bay County Beach Management Network chairman, the presence of the Kenya Coast Guard officers has reduced harassment of fishermen by security officers from neighboring countries. He attributed the improvement in security to the quick response and presence of the Coast Guard officers in the lake.
“Security has improved for the short time the Coast Guard officers have been here. Their presence in the lake issues a red alert to people who intend to violate the rights of others,” Oremo said.
The Director-General of the Kenya Coast Guard Service, Loonena Naisho, stated that the station will create a conducive environment for Lake Victoria users to eke a living. The station will serve Homa Bay, Siaya, and Migori counties.
Three new boats, MV Mageta, MV Migingo, and MV Mkaguzi, were unveiled during the occasion. The boats will be used for patrol by the security officers in the lake. MV Mageta was taken to Mageta island in Siaya, while the remaining two boats are stationed at Mbita to take care of Homa Bay and Migori counties.
