A tragic boat incident occurred at the Kona Punda area within Madogo, Tana River County on Sunday 28th April 2024. At the time of going to press, at least 23 individuals had been rescued with another 17 missing.
Unverified reports put the number of dead at around nine (9).
Residents awaiting transportation witnessed the distressing scene as the boat capsized. Some passengers attempted to swim in the turbulent floods, but were overwhelmed by the water.
The Kenya Red Cross has confirmed that the rescued individuals, numbering 23, are currently receiving medical attention at Madogo Hospital. However, concerns remain for at least 17 individuals who are still unaccounted for.
According to eyewitnesses, the boat, carrying more than 40, was en route to Garissa from Madogo, where it had picked up the passengers.
Reports indicate that three boats have been operating in the area, ferrying people from flood-affected regions since Saturday, charging a fee of Sh1,500 per person.
The overflow of the Tana River, caused by heavy rainfall across the country, has led to the inundation of surrounding areas.
Consequently, the flooding has disrupted the Garissa-Nairobi highway at Madogo, prompting the increased demand for boat transportation—a demand that has tragically resulted in this incident.
