Kenya Maritime Authority investigating detention of Kenyan vessel MV Sea Mfalme in Tanzania
The Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA) has confirmed it is actively looking into the circumstances surrounding the detention of the Kenyan-flagged fishing vessel MV Sea Mfalme by Tanzanian authorities.
The vessel was seized on March 30, 2026, in Kilwa, Tanzania, leaving nine Kenyan seafarers stranded on board under difficult conditions. Tanzanian officials impounded the ship over suspicions of involvement in human trafficking, although the claims have not yet been fully proven in court.
The Seafarers Union of Kenya (SUK) has raised serious concerns about the welfare of the nine crew members, who have been stuck in Kilwa since the incident. Union general secretary Atie Ramadhan addressed journalists in Mombasa, describing the situation as worrying and calling on the government to act quickly. She appealed to Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs Hassan Joho and Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi to intervene and help secure the safe return of the seafarers. The union also urged the KMA to strengthen inspections of vessels and recruiting agents to prevent similar problems in future.
Families of the detained crew members have expressed deep distress. One wife, Mariam Shee, spoke of the agony her family has endured since learning of her husband’s detention on April 1. The seafarers are reportedly facing challenging living conditions while the matter remains unresolved. The union has highlighted the need for better protection and support for Kenyan workers in the maritime sector, especially when they operate in neighbouring countries.
This incident has drawn attention to the importance of strong diplomatic ties and clear maritime cooperation between Kenya and Tanzania. The KMA says it is working closely with relevant authorities on both sides to clarify the facts and resolve the issue as soon as possible. Many hope the investigation will lead to the quick release of the vessel and crew while ensuring the rights and safety of Kenyan seafarers are properly safeguarded in regional waters. The situation continues to develop, with calls growing for urgent government action to bring the men home.
