Kenyan fishermen jailed in Tanzania rescued
CAPTION: Kenyan who had been jailed in Tanzania pose for a photograph on arrival at Moi International Airport on Friday June 13th, 2026. (Courtesy photo).
By Agencies
NAIROBI – Seven Kenyan fishermen who had been convicted in Tanzania have finally been freed and flown back home, ending a two‑month ordeal that had drawn government intervention.
Their return on Friday, June 13, at Moi International Airport was marked by an emotional reception from relatives, friends, and officials of the Kenyan Maritime Authority, who had been anxiously awaiting them.
The fishermen were apprehended in Kilua waters alongside 61 migrants from the Democratic Republic of Congo and Burundi, with Tanzanian authorities accusing them of facilitating illegal transportation using a Kenyan fishing vessel.
After their conviction, each was handed a harsh sentence of 10 years in prison or a fine of KSh 3.5 million, sparking concern among Kenyan stakeholders about the dangers faced by local fishermen operating across borders.
During the reception at Moi International Mombasa, Mining and Blue Economy Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho warmly welcomed the group back, urging Kenyan fishermen working in foreign waters to strictly comply with host nations’ maritime laws and regulations.
He emphasised that adherence is vital to avoid similar ordeals, while underscoring the government’s commitment to protecting the welfare of Kenyan fishermen and promoting responsible practices in international waters.
Meanwhile, Siaya Senator and ODM leader Oburu Oginga has appealed to Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni to ease the near‑takeover of Migingo Island by Ugandan forces.
The island, situated in Lake Victoria, has long been a contentious point between Kenya and Uganda, with Ugandan troops firing warning shots to intimidate Kenyan fishermen and traders since armed police and marines were deployed there in 2004.
Kenyan fishermen have consistently raised complaints of harassment, prompting Oburu, speaking in Kisumu during the launch of Phase 2C of the Standard Gauge Railway attended by Museveni, to propose that Migingo be jointly managed by both nations.
He expressed concern over the mistreatment of fishermen from both sides and challenged Museveni and President William Ruto to establish a cooperative framework that would allow shared use of the island while preventing further conflict.
