Mombasa Governor Mandates Clearance for All Sea Events After MV Dragon Tragedy
Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir has ordered mandatory security clearance for all sea-related events in the county following the fatal capsizing of the MV Dragon during the East African Ocean Festival. The directive aims to prevent future tragedies and strengthen maritime safety protocols.
Three Lives Lost in Tudor Creek Capsizing
The MV Dragon overturned on Friday, October 10, 2025, in Tudor Creek with 22 people on board. Nineteen were rescued—three in critical condition—but three young men lost their lives. On October 12 and 13, authorities recovered the bodies of Caleb Atieno, 21, and Steven Karembo, 23, bringing the death toll to three.
The Kenya Navy, Kenya Coast Guard, Red Cross, county officials, and local volunteers immediately launched a multi-agency search operation.. Deputy President Kithure Kindiki visited the command center on Sunday to monitor efforts.
New Safety Measures Announced
Speaking after a final debrief on Monday, October 13, Governor Nassir announced that all future sea events must obtain approval from the County Security Committee. The Kenya Coast Guard will also lead an investigation and publish findings on the incident.
“Going forward, sea events will require clearance by the County Security Committee,” Nassir stated. “We commend all officers and volunteers who worked tirelessly.”
Lifeguard Recruitment to Boost Emergency Response
The tragedy exposed critical gaps in coastal safety infrastructure. Despite Mombasa’s status as Kenya’s top tourism destination, most beaches lack government-deployed lifeguards. To address this, the county will now recruit trained personnel from existing Beach Management Units.
“This will ensure trained responders are always on standby during water activities,” the governor said, vowing to enhance disaster preparedness along the coastline.
