Mt. Kenya Aquatics Bloc officials demand justice and pool safety reforms after 13 year old drowns in Kagio hotel

The Mt. Kenya Aquatics Bloc, representing swimming counties in the Mt. Kenya Region, has called for an investigation by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) into the tragic drowning of a 13-year-old boy at a Kagio hotel pool in Kirinyaga during New Year celebrations. This request stems from concerns over potential negligence on the part of the hotel - Silver Slopes Resort and Spa in Kagio, which is suspected of hiring unqualified staff—a common practice among institutions looking to cut costs.

Mwea West sub-county Police Commander Mbatian Kantai reported the recovery of the boy's body late on Monday night.

The boy, a Grade 7 student at Rwang'ondu Primary School, was attending a New Year event with his sibling mother, Eunice Wairimu.

The stakeholders are urging the DCI to ensure those responsible are held accountable, emphasizing the need for justice for the bereaved family.

They are also calling on county governments and the Ministry of Education to revoke licenses of institutions that endanger lives by employing untrained personnel, highlighting an increase in child drowning incidents in 2023.

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Tony Muthee, Governor of Nyeri County Aquatics Association (NCAA), expressed concerns about the prevalence of unqualified lifeguards and swimming coaches in schools and hotels, and plans to initiate a crackdown on such practices.

He pointed out the risk of counterfeit swimming certifications in the industry.

Douglas Okatso, Director of Swim Safe Kenya, a body dedicated to improving pool safety by training lifeguards to a high standard, plays a crucial role in addressing this issue.

According to him, a qualified lifeguard should be capable of swimming a 400-meter Individual Medley and possess essential lifeguard skills, including first aid.

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This requirement ensures lifeguards are well-prepared for a variety of emergency scenarios. Swim Safe Kenya offers comprehensive training programs, aiming to equip lifeguards with the necessary skills to effectively prevent and respond to drowning incidents. By partnering with institutions, Swim Safe Kenya seeks to elevate the standard of pool safety, thereby reducing the alarming rate of drowning incidents in Kenya. This approach underscores the importance of professional training and certification in safeguarding the lives of pool users, particularly children.

Courtesy of Mt. Kenya Aquatics Bloc.