This archive report was first published on 23 October 2019.
On October 23, 2019, the Kenyan government took a crucial step in addressing the safety concerns surrounding Kenya Ferry Services by sacking its entire board of management following a tragic incident that claimed the lives of a woman and her daughter.
The incident exposed the glaring shortcomings in the ferry service, which has been a lifeline for thousands of people relying on it daily to move between Mombasa Island and the Likoni mainland.
Transport Cabinet Secretary James Macharia emphasized the need for a reorganized management structure, restructuring of the firm, and an audit of its operations to boost efficiency and commuter safety.
When selecting new board members, the focus should be on identifying individuals with knowledge of ferry operations and general management, rather than 'joyriders' who are merely cronies of top government officials.
The maintenance of the ferries has been a major concern, with cases of vessels stalling midstream and key equipment malfunctioning. Safety precautions must be strictly enforced to prevent stampedes and disorderly embarkation.
