Travelling To Kenya's Coast This Festive Season? Govt Lists 4 Safety Measures
The Coast Guard urged vacationers to prioritise their safety while enjoying the waters by wearing life jackets when participating in all water activities.
Marvin Chege 
The Kenyan coast is one of the major attractions anticipated to have high volumes of visitors from across the country and beyond this festive season. One of the reasons visitors flood the country's coastal area is the beaches.
This is why the Kenya Coast Guard Service (KCGS) on Monday, December 23 issued safety guidelines to anyone who either hasn't or has already travelled to the coast this festive season, mainly concerning the beaches.
To begin with, the Coast Guard urged vacationers to prioritise their safety while enjoying the waters by wearing life jackets when participating in all water activities.
Assuring visitors of their safety on the beaches, the KCGS informed tourists of their presence at the beaches for safety patrols. "Follow all safety guidelines and report any suspicious activities. Let's make this a safe and enjoyable holiday for everyone!" stated the Coast Guard on X.
A Kenya Coast Guard officer on patrol duties. /KENYA COAST GUARD SERVICE
Travellers were also asked to monitor weather updates and avoid overloaded boats, even though the Coast Guard will be available to assist in case of emergencies as they have fun and stay on the alert.
"KCGS has implemented strict safety measures to protect all revellers. Always inform someone of your plans and stay within designated areas especially along the public beaches. Enjoy the waters safely!" added KCGS.
The Coast Guard was established under the Kenya Coast Guard Service Act, 2018 by former President Uhuru Kenyatta. It is tasked with enforcing law and order in Kenya's territorial waters and is mandated to protect Kenya’s territorial waters and exclusive economic zone from exploitation and illegal invasion.
The exclusive economic zone refers to the area stretching 200 Nautical miles beyond Kenya’s territorial sea.
KCGS also ensures that all vessels within their jurisdiction have the required licenses for their operations. It is worth noting that the Coast Guard Service is not part of the Navy.
This directive comes at a time when many Kenyans are expected to be travelling for the holidays, with some taking their vacation at the coast. The government has been pulling out all the stops through the relevant authorities to ensure that Kenyans enjoy their break.
Kenyan Coast Tourist Attraction In a Nutshell
Meanwhile, the Coast offers several attraction options, starting with Mombasa, a fun-filled holiday on Kenya’s coast. Known as County 001, it has undergone major beautification and upgrading (highways, roads and pavements).
It is the hub of tourist activity and remains a favourite with local tourists. Destinations include exploring the north coast beaches, which include Nyali, Shanzu, Bamburi and Mama Ngina Water Front. Other places to explore include the Old Town, Fort Jesus, Mamba Village, Haller Park, Lamu Archipelago, Malindi and Kilifi. The list of activities is only limited by your imagination and creativity.
Other great coastal destinations include Kilifi, home to Malindi, Watamu and Diani, great holiday destinations. For Watamu, a trip to this destination could start with relaxation on the beach and a traditional Swahili dinner. Here you will discover turtle conservation, ancient ruins and lively markets, followed by a morning boat safari, nature walks and other activities.
Kilifi is also home to the mysterious Gedi Ruins, an ancient Swahili village that flourished in the 14th century but whose origins remain a mystery.
There are more than a dozen other historical sites and ruins to visit, as well as great activities such as surfing, snorkelling swimming with the dolphins, canoeing and great dhow sails.
