Tragedy in Kwale: Aircraft Crash Claims 12 Lives

By Collins Wasike 

In a heartbreaking turn of events, a light aircraft en route from Diani to Kichwa Tembo crashed early Tuesday morning in the Tsimba Golini area of Kwale County, killing all 12 passengers on board.

The aircraft, registered as 5Y-CCA, took off from Mombasa Airport before losing contact with air traffic control. According to the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA), the crash occurred at approximately 5:30 AM local time. Emergency responders and government agencies rushed to the scene, but tragically, there were no survivors.

Eyewitnesses described a harrowing scene, with the wreckage engulfed in flames and debris scattered across the crash site. The victims are believed to have been tourists heading to the Maasai Mara, one of Kenya’s most iconic wildlife destinations.

Authorities have launched a full investigation into the cause of the crash, which remains unknown. Aviation experts and forensic teams are combing through the wreckage for clues, while families of the victims are being contacted and offered support.

Transport Cabinet Secretary expressed condolences to the bereaved families, calling the incident a “national tragedy.” He assured the public that safety protocols would be reviewed to prevent future occurrences.

The crash has cast a somber shadow over Kenya’s tourism sector, which has been steadily recovering in recent years. As the nation mourns, questions linger about what went wrong in the skies above Kwale.

This devastating loss serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of rigorous safety standards in aviation. The country now waits for answers—and grieves for the twelve souls lost in the morning mist.