Tourism Cabinet Secretary (CS) Rebecca Miano has expressed deep sorrow following the tragic aircraft crash in Kwale County that claimed the lives of 11 travellers heading to the Maasai Mara Game Reserve.
In a heartfelt statement released on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, Miano described the incident as heartbreaking and extended her condolences to the families and friends of those who lost their lives in the early morning tragedy.
“I have received the disheartening news of the aircraft accident in Kwale County that has claimed the lives of travelers en route to the Maasai Mara Game Reserve. My most sincere condolences to the families and friends of the deceased,” Miano said.
Her message came shortly after the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) confirmed that the aircraft, registered as 5Y-CCA, crashed early Tuesday morning in the coastal county.
According to KCAA Director General Emile N. Arao, the plane was flying from Diani to Kichwa Tembo when it went down at approximately 0530Z (8:30 a.m. local time). The aircraft reportedly had 12 people on board at the time of the accident.
Government agencies have since been dispatched to the crash site to determine the cause of the incident and assess the extent of the damage.
“The Authority wishes to confirm that an aircraft on its way from Diani to Kichwa Tembo crashed at 0530Z. Government agencies are already on site to establish the cause of the accident and its impact,” the KCAA statement read.
While the cause of the crash remains unknown, the aviation authority assured the public that investigations are underway and that it remains committed to upholding safety standards in accordance with the Kenya Civil Aviation Act and international aviation regulations.
Further updates are expected once investigators complete their preliminary findings at the crash site.
