Search and rescue operations are ongoing in the Indian Ocean, where 18 people have already been rescued after a boat carrying an unknown number of people capsized off the coast of Manda in Lamu County.
According to reports, the boat that capsized on the morning of Friday, September 19 was part of a fleet of nine boats that were taking part in a race in Lamu.
One witness claimed that the ill-fated boat overturned due to strong winds.
The exact number of people still missing had not been confirmed at the time of publication.
Lamu Local community leader Faiz Amana stated that during the rescue process, the rescue team faced many challenges because the boats they were using were too small.
“We did not have any other help. Our boat is small and has no capacity, but we still managed to rescue people. Some had difficulties in breathing, others could not swim, but through cooperation, we were able to save them,” Amana said.
He added that some of the rescued individuals were given first aid for breathing difficulties, while others were too weak because they could not swim.
“We managed to rescue them together with their boats, which are expensive, and we have already brought them back to shore,” Amana added.
The locals and the emergency team are continuing with the search for those who might be still be missing.
This incident happened months after three other boats capsized in the region.
On May 24, Kenya Red Cross announced that several people were rescued after three boats capsized at Vidazini and Mnarani in Kilifi and Mutuni in Lamu.
“Three boat capsize incidents were reported this morning, at Vidazini and Mnarani in Kilifi and Mutuni in Lamu. Several people have been rescued, with search efforts ongoing despite rough sea conditions,” a statement by Red Cross Kenya read.
