This archive report was first published on 18 October 2019.
On September 29, 2019, a devastating ferry accident occurred in Likoni, Kenya, claiming the lives of Mariam Kighenda and her daughter Amanda. An autopsy conducted by government pathologist Johansen Oduor revealed that the mother and daughter died due to asphyxiation, a lack of oxygen in the body.
Speaking at the Jocham Hospital, Spokesperson Luka Mbati confirmed that burial arrangements were underway, with the funeral set to take place on Saturday in Kilome subcounty, Makueni county.
According to Oduor, the autopsy aimed to determine the cause of death, allowing the legal process to continue. He stated that both Mariam and Amanda died due to asphyxia, caused by drowning.
The bodies showed signs of decomposition, but the reduced rate of decomposition due to being underwater made it challenging to estimate the time of death. Oduor noted that there were no injuries and everything pointed towards drowning.
Following the autopsy, the case was handed over to the DCI for further investigation. Likoni DCI boss Charles Onyango confirmed that investigations were ongoing, with more people to be questioned. At least five individuals, including the coxswain of the MV Harambee, had already recorded statements with the police.
The family of Mariam Kighenda has announced plans to sue the Kenya Ferry Services for negligence over her death and that of her daughter Amanda. Spokesperson Luka Mbati stated that they would follow legal proceedings after the government confirmed the cause of death.
