Concern as another ferry stalls at Likoni

A ferry stalled at the Likoni channel barely two weeks after another drifted and got stuck on a coral reef causing concern to commuters.

Sources at the channel said MV Harambee stalled midstream after it developed mechanical problems and had to be pushed by MV Kwale to dock at the island ramp at 8pm. The ferry was full of passengers and vehicles as it sailed from the south mainland to the island when it developed the hitch leading to panic.

However, Kenya Ferry Services (KFS) management blamed the hitch on strong tides and termed the incident a minor problem.

“MV Harambee was assisted into docking safely by MV Kwale and thereafter continued with its day’s working schedule. It was due to strong tides,” a corporate communication official Aaron Mutua said.

Two weeks ago, MV Kwale drifted towards the high seas after developing mechanical problems and was struck on coral reef off Mama Ngina Drive for many hours.

About 1,500 passengers had to be rescued by MV Kilindini amid safety concerns from the KFS management.