A tragic incident occurred on Friday, July 31, when a three-year-old boy, Abdi Naseer Abahaj, drowned at the swimming pool of Mvita Comprehensive School in Mombasa.
The family had gathered at the school around 4pm to celebrate the end of the term. Roughly an hour later, the toddler was found submerged in the pool, and rescue efforts were unsuccessful.
Safety Concerns Raised by Family
Family spokesperson Abdulrahman Yusuf highlighted several safety lapses at the facility. He pointed out the lack of depth markings and absence of clear demarcation lines in the pool, noting that the affected area was particularly deep and hazardous.
The family also criticized the absence of a professional lifeguard during a peak holiday period, questioning the adequacy of safety protocols at the school’s swimming pool.
Official Response and Investigation
Mombasa detectives have launched an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the child's death. The family has demanded transparency throughout the inquiry.
The county government’s Education executive called for a comprehensive probe and urged all operators of swimming pools in Mombasa to strictly follow safety regulations, especially during school holidays when child visitors increase.
Authorities confirmed that four children have died in similar drowning incidents in the county, with many occurring during holiday seasons.
Community Reaction and Preventive Measures
Diriye Santur, secretary general of the Somali Community in Mombasa, condemned the recurring tragedies, describing the pools as becoming "children's cemeteries." He urged the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to conduct a thorough investigation and take decisive action.
In response, security officials have ordered a full audit of all swimming pools across Mombasa, including those in residential areas. Operators have been warned to enforce stringent safety measures ahead of the anticipated surge in visitors during the August holiday period.
