This archive report was first published on 13 October 2019.
On October 12, 2019, a severe storm hit the Mombasa waterway, causing the MV Likoni ferry to capsize in the middle of its journey, resulting in injuries to passengers on board.
According to eyewitnesses, the storm was intense, with strong winds and heavy rains that made it difficult for the ferry to navigate.
After the initial chaos, the MV Jambo ferry arrived and pushed the MV Likoni ferry towards the shore, forcing the crew to evacuate the vehicles in reverse.
The Likoni ferry route is a critical transportation link, carrying over 300,000 people and 6,000 vehicles daily between Mombasa and the mainland.
One Facebook user, Nicholas Songoro, expressed his frustration with the ferry service, stating, "This is unacceptable... we cannot continue to use ferries that are not safe."
It is alleged that the strong winds caused the ferry's roof to be blown off and even partially destroyed.
Following the incident, President Kenyatta offered condolences to the family of Mariam Kighenda and her daughter Amanda, who lost their lives in the disaster.
As the investigation into the incident continues, many are left wondering if the Likoni ferry route is safe for passengers.
