The Kenya Maritime Authority has confirmed that the Kenyan-flagged fishing vessel M/V Sea Mfalme has been impounded in Tanzania over alleged human trafficking activities
The vessel was seized on 30 March 2026 in Kilwa, Tanzania
A diplomatic and maritime standoff is unfolding after MV Sea Mfalme was detained by Tanzanian authorities under unclear circumstances, leaving several Kenyan seafarers stranded.
According to the Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA), the vessel was intercepted in Kilwa, Tanzania, after departing Mombasa on March 14. The authority confirmed it is working with both Kenyan and Tanzanian agencies to establish the facts surrounding the incident and determine the next course of action.
Initial reports indicate that at least nine Kenyan crew members remain stuck aboard the vessel, raising concerns over their welfare and legal status. The Seafarers Union of Kenya has called for urgent government intervention, citing harsh conditions and uncertainty facing the detained crew.
Tanzanian authorities are believed to be holding the vessel over suspected human trafficking violations, though investigations are still ongoing and details remain limited.
KMA has assured stakeholders that the matter is being handled through established diplomatic and regulatory channels, emphasizing its commitment to protecting Kenya’s maritime reputation and ensuring compliance with international standards.
The incident now puts pressure on both Nairobi and Dodoma to resolve the situation swiftly, as families of the detained crew await answers and the safe return of their loved on.
Source Citizen Digital Kenya
The vessel was seized on 30 March 2026 in Kilwa, Tanzania
A diplomatic and maritime standoff is unfolding after MV Sea Mfalme was detained by Tanzanian authorities under unclear circumstances, leaving several Kenyan seafarers stranded.
According to the Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA), the vessel was intercepted in Kilwa, Tanzania, after departing Mombasa on March 14. The authority confirmed it is working with both Kenyan and Tanzanian agencies to establish the facts surrounding the incident and determine the next course of action.
Initial reports indicate that at least nine Kenyan crew members remain stuck aboard the vessel, raising concerns over their welfare and legal status. The Seafarers Union of Kenya has called for urgent government intervention, citing harsh conditions and uncertainty facing the detained crew.
Tanzanian authorities are believed to be holding the vessel over suspected human trafficking violations, though investigations are still ongoing and details remain limited.
KMA has assured stakeholders that the matter is being handled through established diplomatic and regulatory channels, emphasizing its commitment to protecting Kenya’s maritime reputation and ensuring compliance with international standards.
The incident now puts pressure on both Nairobi and Dodoma to resolve the situation swiftly, as families of the detained crew await answers and the safe return of their loved on.
Source Citizen Digital Kenya
