The Madagascar vessel MV Chamda III, which was rescued by Kenyan authorities on August 5, has departed from Kenya.
The vessel experienced a generator failure that left its crew and passengers stranded for four days.
MV Chamda III, MMSI No. 647861302, had set sail from Tanga, Tanzania, on July 30, bound for Madagascar. However, mechanical issues led to a loss of electrical power just a day into its journey, causing the ship to drift until it reached Kenyan waters.
On August 3, the Kenya Maritime Authority’s regional maritime rescue coordination center received a distress signal from the vessel. The Kenya Coast Guard Services and the Kenya Navy responded swiftly, rescuing and towing the vessel to Mbaraki Wharf in Mombasa.
Engineers determined that the vessel’s generator was beyond repair and needed replacement. Norske Shipping Agency Kenya managing director Charles Egohe explained that sourcing a compatible generator took time.
After nearly two weeks of repairs, the ship was able to depart Kenya on August 18.
The vessel MV Chamda III, carrying 17 crew members and two passengers, has departed Kenya after repairs.
Following the distress call on August 3, Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA) Director General Martin Dzombo reported that a coordinated search and rescue operation was launched. This effort involved the Kenya Coast Guard Service (KCGS), Kenya Navy, and Kenya Ports Authority.
The vessel was first spotted near Malindi on August 4. The KCGS deployed MV Doria to tow it to safety. The effective coordination of the response ensured the safety of both the crew and the vessel. MV Chamda III arrived at Mbaraki Wharf in Likoni, Mombasa, at approximately 2:30 a.m. on August 5, with all onboard reported safe.
Upon arrival, a multi-agency team including KCGS, Kenya Ports Authority, Port Health Officers, Immigration Department, Kenya Revenue Authority, and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations conducted a thorough inspection. This routine check ensured the safety and well-being of the crew and passengers and addressed any medical needs while coordinating their safe repatriation.
