Lamu Authorities Urge Caution on Treacherous Indian Ocean Beaches

As the festive season approaches, Lamu County authorities have issued a critical advisory for tourists and locals regarding the potential dangers of swimming at the region’s celebrated Indian Ocean beaches.

This warning follows the identification of several hazardous locations within the archipelago, including Shela, Wiyoni, Kipungani, Ras Kitau, Manda-Toto, Kiwayu, and Mkokoni. Abdulhakim Mahmoud, Coordinator of the Kenya Red Cross Society in Lamu County, highlights that these areas have been the sites of numerous fatalities involving individuals of all ages, particularly children and students, primarily due to underwater caves.

Mahmoud emphasizes the importance of safety precautions, urging swimmers to utilize flotation devices and other safety equipment. Additionally, Mahmoud encourages both community members and visitors to report any incidents to the Emergency Operation Centre (EOC) in Mokowe without delay.

“For newcomers to Lamu, it is essential to heed warnings about these spots. Children, in particular, should never be left unsupervised,” he states.

He stresses the need for adherence to safety guidelines and weather alerts, reiterating that such alerts should always be taken seriously. Residents along the Coast have also raised concerns about the need for continuous surveillance of the ocean, particularly in areas frequented for swimming and sporting activities.

Mohamed Somo, chairman of the Lamu County Beach Management Unit (BMU) Network, argues that enhanced monitoring could significantly improve response times in emergencies. While the attraction of Lamu’s idyllic weather and pristine sandy beaches draws crowds daily, the risk of drowning remains a substantial problem, often aggravated by alcohol consumption.

“With an increase in visitors during the year-end festivities, constant oversight of the beaches and ocean is vital,” Somo explained.

Yunus Aboud Sahe, chairman of the Malindi BMU, reiterates this concern, advising against drinking alcohol near the water due to its association with drowning incidents. He notes that many regions globally enforce strict regulations prohibiting alcohol on beaches to prevent such tragedies. Last week, Coast Regional Commissioner Rhoda Onyancha assured county residents and tourists of a secure holiday season in the coastal region of Kenya.

Emphasizing the significance of the Coast as a major tourist destination, Onyancha detailed government strategies designed to promote a peaceful and safe environment for festivities. During a media briefing in Mombasa, she highlighted the calm year experienced since February, attributed to a multi-agency approach to security concerns. Each county has developed an operational plan focused on maintaining security during the holiday period, with an emphasis on collaboration at the sub-county level.

To enhance safety, a multi-agency command center will be established to address emergencies, supported by toll-free contacts. Increased security personnel will be deployed in shopping areas, tourist resorts, and places of worship. Onyancha also addressed the crackdown on crime in Likoni and Kisauni sub-counties, urging parents to monitor their children’s safety during festivities.