Grounded MV DAN to Be Refloated in Mid-August, Says KMA

By Harrison Kivisu

Email, thecoastnewspaper@gmail.com

The Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA) has announced that preparations are at an advanced stage to refloat the grounded cargo vessel MV DAN off Nyali beach,Mombasa.

According to KMA Director General CPA Omae Nyarandi,the operation is expected to begin in mid-August following regulatory approvals and the arrival of specialised salvage equipment.

The vessel, of IMO No.8415160 which ran aground off Nyali Beach in Mombasa, remains under close surveillance as government agencies work together to safeguard navigation, protect the marine environment and ensure the welfare of the crew on board.

CPA Nyarandi,affirmed the multi-agency response has made significant progress, with the vessel’s owner appointing Yaa Holdings Limited as the official salvage contractor.

“A multi-agency team has held a series of consultative meetings with the vessel owners and their local representatives regarding the salvage operation. The vessel owner has since appointed Yaa Holdings Limited as the salvage contractor, while the proposed salvage plan is undergoing the necessary regulatory and technical review. Mobilisation of specialised equipment required for the operation is also underway,” said CPA Nyarandi.

He added that the refloating exercise has been carefully scheduled to coincide with favourable weather and tidal conditions to maximise safety and operational success.

“Subject to completion of the regulatory approval process and the arrival of all the required salvage equipment in Kenya, the refloating operation is scheduled to commence in mid-August. The operation has been planned to coincide with favourable weather and tidal conditions to facilitate its safe and effective execution,” he said.

CPA Nyarandi commended the cooperation shown by the vessel owner, the salvage contractor and all government agencies involved, noting that KMA will continue to provide regulatory oversight throughout the operation.

“KMA will continue to provide regulatory oversight throughout the operation to ensure that the vessel is refloated safely, efficiently and in full compliance with applicable maritime safety and marine environmental protection requirements,” he said.

He assured the public and maritime stakeholders that the situation remains under control, with the Kenya Coast Guard Service maintaining round-the-clock security and surveillance around the vessel to prevent unauthorised access and acts of vandalism.

“We wish to assure the public and all maritime stakeholders that the situation remains under control. The Authority will continue to monitor developments closely and provide regular updates as the operation progresses,” CPA Nyarandi said.

The successful salvage operation is expected to restore normal maritime conditions in the area while reinforcing Kenya’s commitment to maritime safety, environmental protection and coordinated emergency response.