Nine Kenyan Seafarers Stranded in Tanzania as Union Calls for Urgent Government Intervention

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Nine Kenyan seafarers are stranded in Kilwa, Tanzania, after their fishing vessel was impounded by authorities over allegations of human trafficking.

The Seafarers Union of Kenya (SUK) has raised concern over the welfare of the crew, who have remained in Kilwa since March 30, 2026, when the vessel, Sea Mfalme, was seized with the nine Kenyans on board.

Addressing journalists in Mombasa, SUK General Secretary Atie Ramadhan said the seafarers are facing difficult conditions as they await the outcome of investigations by Tanzanian authorities.

She noted that the prolonged stay has raised concerns about their safety, access to basic needs, and overall well-being.

Ramadhan appealed to the Kenyan government to intervene urgently and facilitate the release of the crew, stressing that they may be suffering despite not having been found guilty of any wrongdoing.

She said the situation requires immediate diplomatic engagement to ensure the rights of the seafarers are protected.

According to the union, the vessel was detained on suspicion of involvement in human trafficking, an allegation that has yet to be conclusively determined.

The crew members have remained in limbo since the incident, with limited clarity on the progress of the case or when they might be allowed to return home.

Ramadhan called on Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs Hassan Joho and his Foreign and Diaspora Affairs counterpart Musalia Mudavadi to take swift action.

She urged the two ministries to engage their Tanzanian counterparts and work towards resolving the matter as quickly as possible.

She emphasised that seafarers often operate in challenging environments and require the protection and support of their government, especially when faced with legal or diplomatic issues in foreign jurisdictions.

The union, she said, is closely monitoring the situation and remains in contact with relevant authorities.

The plight of the stranded crew highlights the risks faced by maritime workers, particularly those operating across international waters where legal frameworks and enforcement measures may vary.

It also underscores the importance of clear protocols and cooperation between countries in handling such cases.

Ramadhan further noted that delays in resolving the matter could have broader implications for the affected families, who depend on the seafarers for their livelihoods.

She called for transparency in the handling of the case and timely updates to ease the anxiety of relatives back home.

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