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{
    "id": 1563198,
    "url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/1563198/?format=api",
    "text_counter": 338,
    "type": "speech",
    "speaker_name": "Sen. Faki",
    "speaker_title": "",
    "speaker": {
        "id": 13211,
        "legal_name": "Mohamed Faki Mwinyihaji",
        "slug": "mohamed-faki-mwinyihaji-2"
    },
    "content": "On the 29th of April, 2025 we commemorated 31 years since the Mtongwe ferry tragedy in 1994. Private security guards tasked with managing the crossing have increasingly been overwhelmed by the crowds, raising grave concerns about disaster preparedness in the event of an emergency. Mr. Deputy Speaker Sir, the situation is further compounded by the continued use of aging ferries, many of which have no book value and whose insurance and mechanical fitness status are questionable. Although the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) had proposed to procure new ferries, this initiative has yet to materialize. Additionally, the dismantling of the temporary footbridge, commissioned during the COVID-19 pandemic, has exacerbated congestion at the crossing. Given that the ferry operates at the gateway to the Port of Mombasa, any incident could have far-reaching consequences for regional trade and economic stability. In the Statement, the Committee should address the following- (1) The reasons behind the deterioration in services at the Likoni Ferry Crossing, and the measures being taken by KPA management to restore efficient operations. (2) The steps being implemented to enhance crowd control and ensure pedestrian and commuter safety during peak hours. (3) The disaster preparedness plans in place to mitigate risks in case of emergencies at the ferry crossing. (4) The status of the proposal to acquire new ferries to replace the aging fleet, and the timelines for implementation. (5) The justification for dismantling of the footbridge without a suitable alternative for pedestrian crossing, and whether there are plans to reintroduce a safe passage option for pedestrians"
}