This archive report was first published on 30 September 2019.
On September 30, 2019, a devastating ferry tragedy occurred in Likoni, Kenya, claiming the lives of a mother and daughter.
Mariam Kighenda, 35, and her four-year-old daughter Amanda Mutheu were among the victims who perished when the vehicle they were in slid from the rear of the MV Harambee ferry just before it docked.
According to Likoni OCPD Benjamin Rotich, the vehicle lost its braking ability and reversed into the ocean, making it impossible for rescue divers to reach the victims.
As the vehicle sank, it was seen floating on the ocean's surface, with onlookers screaming in horror. The tragic incident was captured on video and shared on social media.
Rescue efforts were hindered by the depth of the water, with the vehicle estimated to be around 60 meters below the surface. Kenya Ferry Services is working with the Kenya Navy to obtain more oxygen for the divers, who can only dive to a depth of 30 meters with the available tanks.
