Five fishermen tragically lost their lives on Sunday evening, December 28, 2025, after their boat capsized on Lake Victoria near the Dho-Goye area of Usigu Sub-county, Siaya County.
The vessel, carrying seven individuals, was struck by strong winds, causing it to overturn in the rough waters during routine fishing activities.
John Ochieng’, Chairman of the Usenge Beach Management Unit (BMU), confirmed the incident, stating, “The winds were very strong, and the boat could not withstand the waves, leading to the tragic accident.”
He further reported that five fishermen drowned, while one survivor managed to cling to the overturned boat until being rescued by other fishermen operating nearby.
Authorities in Siaya have launched a search and rescue operation for the three fishermen who remain missing.
So far, two bodies have been recovered and transported to the Got Agulu Sub-County Hospital mortuary, with efforts ongoing to retrieve the remaining victims.
This incident adds to a growing list of fatal boating accidents on Lake Victoria this year, underscoring the persistent safety challenges faced by fishing communities across the region.
Unpredictable weather, limited access to essential safety equipment, and insufficient enforcement of maritime regulations continue to expose fishermen to deadly risks on the lake, which serves as a vital economic lifeline for thousands of households.
