Groundbreaking Ceremony for Lake Victoria Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre in Kisumu
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- September 1, 2024
In a significant move towards enhancing maritime safety and emergency response, President H.E. William Samoei Ruto presided over the groundbreaking ceremony for the Lake Victoria Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre in Kisumu County during his working tour of Nyanza counties this past week. This pivotal event marks the beginning of a project that aims to bolster maritime safety and improve emergency communications across the region.
A Regional Hub for Maritime Safety
The primary hub of the Rescue Centre will be strategically located in Kisumu, with additional centres spread across Homabay, Siaya, Migori, and Busia. This network of centres is designed to ensure comprehensive coverage and rapid response capabilities throughout the Lake Victoria region.
Enhancing Safety and Communication
The Centre’s core mission is to enhance maritime safety by improving communication systems and leveraging the GSM network for emergency situations. Equipped with state-of-the-art rescue assets, including rescue boats and evacuation helicopters, the Centre is poised to become a critical lifeline for those in distress on Lake Victoria.
Generous Land Allocation and Comprehensive Facilities
Kisumu County has generously allocated land for the construction of this vital facility. The Centre will feature an operational centre, a security control centre, a communications room, a regional coordination office, and a rescue centre with Emergency Medical Services (EMS). These facilities will ensure that the Centre operates efficiently and effectively in all emergency scenarios.
Multi-Agency Collaboration
A multi-agency team, comprising both national and county-level personnel, will manage the jetty and oversee all coordination and port operations. This collaborative approach is expected to streamline operations and enhance the overall effectiveness of the Centre.
Future Development Plans
In addition to the Rescue Centre, there are plans to develop the lakefront on the allocated land, further enhancing the region’s infrastructure and accessibility.
Distinguished Guests in Attendance
The ceremony was graced by several notable figures, including Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Hon. Ali Hassan Joho (Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Maritime, and Blue Economy), Governors Gladys Wanga and Irungu Kang’ata, along with other national and regional leaders. Their presence underscored the importance of this project and the collective commitment to improving maritime safety in the region.
This groundbreaking ceremony marks a significant step forward in ensuring the safety and well-being of those who rely on Lake Victoria for their livelihoods and transportation. The Lake Victoria Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre is set to become a beacon of hope and security for the entire region.
