Test ride turns tragic as two fishermen drown in Lake Victoria

KISUMU,Kenya, July 26 – Two fishermen have drowned in Lake Victoria following a boat accident at Rari beach in Kisumu West.

The duo were part of a group of nine fishermen who were testing a new boat engine that had been introduced at the beach. By evening, the bodies of 19 year old Stephen Ochieng and 20 year old Stephen Ochieng were yet to be retrieved from the lake.

Witnesses told Shahidi news that the fishermen had been excited following the introduction of the new engine.

They had been optimistic that the new engine would improve their catch after months of relying on dhows and small fishing canoes.

A dark cloud now hangs over that dream after the test ride turned tragic.

Trouble started when the fishermen had sailed about 500 meters from the shore. Strong tides rocked the boat and threw two men into the water.

Joshua Ochieng, a witness, said that the fishermen made a futile attempt to rescue the two but they did not succeed.

“We saw them struggle in the water. The tides were strong,” he said.

Moments after the horrific accident, authorities with the help of residents mounted a search for the bodies of the two.

County Commander Samuel Anampiu confirmed the incident and said that they had requested Kenya Coast Guard officials to help with the search.

“The two fell into Lake Victoria and drowned. The bodies are yet to be retrieved, “he said.