Kenya has announced its possession of a fourth ferry after the shutdown of a 1.9 billion bridge.
In a statement dated Monday, 24 November 2025, it has been confirmed that the fourth ferry is now operating.
“Fourth ferry now in operation. Thank you for your continued support. Make a point of regarding all safety and security measures in place for a safe sail.” Posted by Ferry Kenya.
Ferry Kenya has urged its customers to prioritize all safety and security measures in place for a safe sail.
Impact on the Operation of the Kenya’s New Fourth Ferry
The Ksh1.9 billion floating bridge, launched as an alternative pedestrian crossing, was shut down following technical and structural concerns. The closure not only disrupted normal flow but also redirected thousands of pedestrians back to ferry services.
With increased demand, ferry operations faced occasional delays. Therefore, the operation of the new fourth ferry by Kenya Ferry is expected to significantly cut down the long wait times and congestion currently experienced at the Likoni Ferry crossing, leading to improved commuter productivity.
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Additionally, it will also provide a more dignified and comfortable daily journey for commuters with improved facilities and organized systems, integrating economic empowerment by creating over 900 stalls for informal traders, ensuring that small businesses remain an integral part of the ferry ecosystem, and ensuring facilitation for the persons with disabilities and a clearer segregation of passengers and vehicle movement.
Reasons for the Shutdown of the Floating Bridge
The floating bridge, also known as the Liwatoni floating bridge, was initially built as a temporary measure during the COVID-19 pandemic to ease pedestrian congestion at the Likoni ferry channel and facilitate social distancing.
However, the operation of the bridge was later suspended due to the following reasons:
Ship Delays: This was the main reason for the shutdown. This is because of the significant time ships had to wait for the bridge’s movable section to open and close, which hampered operations and caused congestion at the port of Mombasa.
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The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) suspended the bridge’s operations to facilitate the launch of continuous, 24-hour port services for oil tankers and other vessels, which were incompatible with the bridge’s operational requirements.
Despite the bridge serving its initial purpose in reducing ferry congestion, some pedestrians complained about the long distance and the intense sun exposure while crossing the one-kilometer stretch, leading to low usage before mandatory directives were imposed.
Maintenance and Safety Concerns: Before its indefinite closure, the bridge underwent routine maintenance due to its condition, with officials citing safety checks as one of the reasons for the initial suspension.
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