Rapid response and operational readiness remain at the heart of the Kenya Navy’s commitment to safeguarding lives at sea and ensuring maritime safety at sea. Through continuous vigilance, professionalism and close collaboration with maritime stakeholders, the Service continues to enhance its capacity to respond promptly to emergencies, protecting both seafarers and coastal communities.
This was demonstrated when Kenya Navy personnel from the Shimoni Special Boats Unit (SBU) successfully rescued 41 people during a Search and Rescue operation. The operation was initiated after Shimoni SBU received a distress alert through the Shimoni Beach Management Unit (BMU) from the captain of the cargo dhow SIRI YA MAFANIKIO, which had begun taking on water approximately 1.5 nautical miles off Mpunguti ya Juu Island. The vessel was en route from Shimoni to Pemba.
Acting swiftly, the rescue team deployed a Patrol Boat to the scene, where all 41 occupants were safely evacuated before the distressed vessel was towed to Shimoni Port. Those rescued comprised 11 crew members and 30 passengers of both Kenyan and Tanzanian nationalities.
One person sustained minor injuries during the incident and was evacuated to Qatar Medical Centre in Shimoni for treatment while the remaining occupants were rescued safely and accounted for.
The successful rescue underscores the Kenya Navy’s unwavering dedication to protecting lives at sea through rapid response, operational preparedness and effective cooperation with partner agencies, reaffirming its vital role in maintaining a safe and secure maritime domain.
Add Comment