President William Ruto has launched a major Sh3.5 billion safety initiative aimed at reducing the high number of deaths due to drowning in Lake Victoria. The project, which was announced during the commissioning of the Lake Victoria Maritime Rescue Coordination Center (MRCC) in Kisumu, seeks to make the lake safer for fishermen and other users by establishing a robust rescue and safety infrastructure. This initiative is expected to address the alarming statistic of 5,000 people losing their lives in the lake annually.
A Multi-National Safety Effort
The government, in collaboration with regional administrations, has decided to establish a multi-nation rescue centre that will work alongside Uganda and Tanzania to coordinate rescue operations on the lake. This multi-nation approach aims to enhance the safety of those who depend on the lake for their livelihoods, thereby contributing to Kenya’s food security and economic stability.
“We have started a significant project that will help our fishermen avoid accidents while on the lake. Should an accident occur, they will be able to receive assistance through the rescue centre today,” President Ruto stated. He emphasized his government’s commitment to creating a safer environment for the communities around Lake Victoria, who have long been plagued by tragic accidents and the threat of drowning.
Establishing Five Rescue Centers
The initiative will establish five rescue centers across Busia, Siaya, Kisumu, Homa Bay, and Migori counties. These centers will be strategically positioned to ensure swift response to emergencies, significantly enhancing the safety of those who use the lake for fishing, transport, and other economic activities.
According to Kenya Maritime Authority Director General Martin Munga, the MRCC facility in Kisumu will be equipped with state-of-the-art rescue assets, including rescue boats, ambulances, and evacuation helicopters. The facility will also feature an operational centre, a security control centre, a communications room, a regional coordination office, and a rescue centre with emergency medical services.
“The centre will include communication systems that react to distress; we are thinking of having toll-free numbers so that those at the border and all using the lake for fishing and transport can reach us without any problem to receive any distress messages for 24 hours,” Munga explained. This comprehensive setup will facilitate prompt responses to distress signals, thereby reducing the response time during emergencies.
Addressing Safety and Enhancing the Blue Economy
The primary goal of the initiative is to reduce the number of deaths on Lake Victoria, ensuring that young people engaged in fishing can work without fear of accidents. President Ruto stressed the importance of creating a safe working environment for fishermen, who play a crucial role in the nation’s food supply and economy.
“We are committed to building these rescue centres to make Lake Victoria a safe place for those who rely on it,” he added. By enhancing safety, the initiative is also expected to boost the exploitation of blue economy activities in the lake, creating employment opportunities for the youth and promoting inter-county and inter-country trade.
The government’s move to establish these safety measures is not only a response to the tragic loss of lives but also a strategic investment in the region’s economic development. The safety initiative aligns with broader efforts to revive transport links between Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania through Lake Victoria, enhancing connectivity and trade among the East African nations.
Looking Forward
As construction of the rescue facilities begins, the government remains focused on ensuring the successful implementation of the project. By reducing the risk of accidents on the lake, the initiative aims to foster a thriving blue economy and secure the livelihoods of thousands who depend on Lake Victoria. With these measures in place, Lake Victoria is set to become a safer and more productive hub for the region.
