Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir has proposed banning vehicles from using the Likoni ferry following a Sunday morning incident where a bus overturned as it disembarked, leaving nine people seriously injured. The bus, en route from Ukunda to Nairobi, lost control and tipped over while leaving the ferry.
In a statement after visiting the victims at the Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital, Governor Nassir expressed concern for the safety of ferry users and emphasized that the proposed ban is aimed at enhancing the safety of both pedestrians and motorists.
“I personally visited the victims at the Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital to offer support and ensure they are receiving the best care possible. The county government of Mombasa is deeply concerned about the safety of all ferry users,” Nassir stated.
“To prevent future accidents, we will propose to the national government a ban on vehicular traffic on the ferry. This step is intended to enhance the safety of both pedestrians and motorists,” he added.
Nassir also urged residents and travelers to remain vigilant as emergency teams continue operations at the scene. “We will keep you updated on further developments. Our prayers are with those injured, and we wish them a speedy recovery.”
Volunteers from the Kenya Red Cross, based at the Likoni Ferry rescue center, collaborated with officers from the National Police Service and Kenya Ferry Authority to respond to the emergency. The Red Cross also provided psychosocial support services. Seven people were treated at the scene, while two others were taken to the hospital.
This incident brought back memories of a tragic event in September 2019 when 35-year-old Mariam Kigenda and her four-year-old daughter, Amanda Mutheu, lost their lives after their car slid off the ferry ramp and plunged into the Indian Ocean.
