A boat capsized on the morning of Friday, September 19, in Lamu. The vessel was part of a fleet of nine boats taking part in a local race.
Eyewitnesses say strong winds caused the boat to overturn. At the time of reporting, the exact number of people missing was still unknown.
Rescue Efforts Challenged by Small Boats
Lamu community leader Faiz Amana spoke about the difficulties faced during the rescue.
“We did not have any other help. Our boat is small and has no capacity, but we still managed to rescue people,” Amana said.
He added that some of the rescued had trouble breathing, while others could not swim. Despite these challenges, the team worked together to save 18 people.
Some victims received first aid for breathing problems. Others were weak and exhausted from struggling in the water.
The rescue team also recovered the overturned boats, which Amana said were expensive. All rescued individuals and boats were brought safely back to shore.
Search for Missing Continues
Locals and emergency teams are still searching for people who remain missing. This incident comes just months after three other boats capsized in the region.
On May 24, the Kenya Red Cross reported several rescues after boats capsized at Vidazini and Mnarani in Kilifi, and Mutuni in Lamu.
“Several people have been rescued, with search efforts ongoing despite rough sea conditions,” the Red Cross said.
Safety Warning
Authorities have urged residents and boat participants to exercise caution. Unpredictable weather along the coast increases the risk of accidents.
Rescue teams remain on high alert as they continue their search operations.
