Mombasa: Mombasa County Government has unveiled a series of new maritime safety measures aimed at preventing future marine accidents following the tragic capsizing of the MV Dragon along Tudor Creek on Friday. Governor Abdulswamad Nassir said the county government has successfully concluded search and recovery operations and is now shifting focus towards improving maritime safety and emergency preparedness across all waterways within Mombasa.
According to Kenya News Agency, speaking during a press briefing at his Kizingo office, Nassir emphasized that the new measures are designed to ensure the safety of residents and visitors while avoiding decisions driven by emotion in the aftermath of the tragedy. ‘The county government, together with our security and disaster response agencies, will continue working to ensure such incidents do not recur. Our focus is now on implementing lasting solutions that prioritize safety and preparedness,’ he said.
The Governor announced that the county government, in collaboration with the Kenya Red Cross Society, 911 Emergency Services, and other partners, will provide psychological counseling and trauma support to survivors and the families of those who lost their lives. He added that a full inquiry into the incident would be conducted, led jointly by the Kenya Coast Guard Service (KCGS) and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).
The inquiry will be comprehensive and transparent. The report will be shared with the public and will clearly outline what transpired and how it happened,’ he stated. Under the new safety framework, all hotels and establishments located along the coastline will be required to obtain clearance from the County Security and Disaster Management teams before hosting any large-scale events near or on the water.
Nassir said going forward, the County Disaster Management team will be present at all approved waterfront events, supported by County enforcement officers. He added that the Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA) will continue its regulatory oversight on vessel safety, while the Kenya Coast Guard Service will enforce the new safety protocols and ensure compliance.
He also expressed gratitude to the Beach Management Unit (BMUs) for their crucial role in assisting recovery operations during the MV Dragon tragedy. He announced that the county government will soon begin a program to engage trained local divers from every BMU across Mombasa. ‘Beginning immediately, the Deputy Governor will initiate the process of onboarding youth from each BMU. They will be placed on paid attachments pending formal employment and will receive professional training in marine safety, rescue, and equipment handling,’ said Nassir.
He revealed that through a World Bank-supported programme, Mombasa County will soon receive a new rescue and safety boat to be operated jointly with KMA. Additionally, the County plans to procure more vessels to be used by a newly established Marine Inspectorate Unit within the County Inspectorate Department.
‘The Deputy Governor will commence recruitment today, and the Public Service Board has been directed to fast-track the process because safety cannot wait,’ he emphasised. As part of broader public safety reforms, the County Executive Committee has also been tasked with developing new regulations governing public swimming pools. Nassir said that all facilities offering public access will be required to have certified lifeguards on-site before being issued operating licenses.
‘Before any license is issued, pool owners will need to demonstrate that qualified lifesavers are available at the premises,’ he said, adding that the regulations will ensure uniform safety standards across the County’s hospitality and recreation sectors. Governor Nassir reiterated his administration’s commitment to safeguarding the lives of Mombasa residents and visitors, saying the tragedy had underscored the urgent need to strengthen maritime governance, training, and disaster response capacity.