CS Joho Pitches Helicopter Rescues for Lake Victoria Missions

The establishment of a search and rescue centre equipped with a helicopter in Nyanza could prove to be a key solution for assisting fishermen in distress on Lake Victoria.

Mr Joho has acknowledged these issues and commits to resolving them through his ministry's efforts. Currently, the Kenya Coast Guard Services and the Kenya Maritime Authority are responsible for patrolling Lake Victoria and ensuring safety and security. However, their reliance on boats for transportation often results in delayed responses to emergencies. To mitigate this problem, Mr Joho has suggested the creation of a rescue centre featuring a helicopter which would significantly enhance response times to distress calls. In a related development, President William Ruto is scheduled to inaugurate the Railway Training Institute's (RTI) Kisumu Marine School.

This institution will offer essential maritime safety training in accordance with the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers. Mr Joho has revealed that the institute will incorporate a rescue and communication centre to coordinate maritime safety operations on Lake Victoria. Furthermore, he has urged President Ruto to authorize the allocation of a helicopter to the centre, emphasizing its potential to expedite rescue missions for stranded fishermen. Similar proposals for rescue centres around Lake Victoria have been put forward in the past but they have yet to be implemented. A notable incident occurred in September 2021, when ten individuals lost their lives in a boat accident in Homa Bay County.

The vessel, overloaded with construction materials, capsized shortly after departing from Koginga Beach. The proposed search and rescue centre, complete with a helicopter, represents a significant step towards enhancing the safety and security of Lake Victoria's fishing community. By enabling rapid response to emergencies, the centre could potentially save numerous lives and reduce the incidence of injuries resulting from accidents and hostile encounters. Moreover, it would facilitate better coordination among the various agencies responsible for maritime safety, leading to more efficient and effective emergency management.

Complementing the rescue centre, the Kisumu Marine School's training programs will play a crucial role in equipping fishermen with essential skills and knowledge for safe navigation. The curriculum will cover critical aspects of maritime safety, including emergency response procedures, navigation techniques, and proper use of safety equipment. Through these educational initiatives, the government aims to reduce accident rates and improve overall safety conditions for the fishing community. The success of this ambitious project hinges on the unwavering commitment of the government and relevant stakeholders to implement the proposed measures and allocate necessary resources for search and rescue operations.

Meanwhile, Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga has highlighted the ongoing threats faced by Nyanza fishermen from security personnel of neighbouring countries. While President Ruto did not directly address this issue during his recent visit, he had previously pledged to resolve the persistent security concerns plaguing the fishing community.