The Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA) has confirmed that a Kenyan-flagged vessel, M/V SEA MFALME, has been detained in the United Republic of Tanzania.
In a statement on April 16 by the KMA Director General, CPA Omae Nyarandi, the Authority stated that it has taken note of the reports and initiated a review of the matter.
“The Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA) acknowledges reports regarding the detention of a Kenyan‑flagged vessel, M/V SEA MFALME, in the United Republic of Tanzania,” the statement read in part.
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KMA Engages Kenya and Tanzania Authorities in Vessel Detention Probe
KMA indicated that it is working with relevant government agencies in Kenya and counterparts in Tanzania to verify the circumstances surrounding the detention.
The Authority further stated that the situation is being handled through established intergovernmental and regulatory frameworks.
“The matter is currently under review, with the Authority working closely with relevant Government agencies and counterparts in Kenya and Tanzania to verify the circumstances and facilitate appropriate follow‑up actions,” the director general noted.
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KMA Assures Stakeholders as Follow Up Actions Begin on Vessel Detention
The Kenya Maritime Authority has indicated that appropriate follow-up actions are being undertaken in response to the detention of the Kenyan-flagged vessel. The Authority is coordinating processes to address the situation through relevant channels.
KMA stated that the matter is being handled within established intergovernmental and regulatory frameworks, ensuring compliance with existing procedures between Kenya and Tanzania.
“KMA wishes to assure stakeholders that the situation is being handled through established intergovernmental and regulatory frameworks. Further communication will be issued as appropriate,” the statement noted.
The Authority further assured stakeholders that additional communication will be issued as necessary. It reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the credibility of Kenya’s ship registry and upholding maritime standards.
Details of the Kenyan Vessel Detention
The Kenyan-flagged fishing vessel, Sea Mfalme, was detained by Tanzanian authorities in Kilwa on March 30, 2026, over alleged human trafficking violations.
It had departed from Mombasa on March 14, 2026, and was intercepted off the Tanzanian coast during a fishing voyage.
Nine Kenyan seafarers remain stranded on board following the detention. The crew includes the ship master Frank Mbotela, chief engineer Spatuel Mwachari, as well as other personnel such as a cook, deckhands, and oilers.
Concerns have been raised over the crew’s welfare, payment, and legal status while they remain in Tanzania.
The Seafarers Union of Kenya called on the government to intervene and facilitate the release of the affected seafarers.
