Tragedy as Two Children Drown During Nyali Family Vacation

A family holiday in Nyali, Mombasa, turned tragic after two sisters, aged 13 and 9, drowned in a swimming pool at a serviced apartment complex. 

The incident occurred at a popular holiday apartment along Mt Kenya Road, a location often favoured by tourists visiting the coastal city. According to reports, the family had recently arrived in Mombasa and had left the children under their mother’s supervision while the father and other siblings stepped out to buy lunch. During this short period, the two girls accessed the swimming pool, where they later drowned.

Key concerns have emerged over the lack of safety measures at the property, including the absence of a lifeguard and unclear or missing depth markings in the pool area. These issues are now central to a police investigation. Mombasa County Police Commander Peter Kimani has confirmed that the matter is being taken seriously, noting that both the lack of safety personnel and the pool's non-compliance with basic safety standards are under review.

The tragedy has sparked strong public reaction, with many questioning the responsibility of holiday apartment managers to ensure guest safety, especially where children are involved. Unlike traditional hotels, many serviced apartments operate with limited regulatory oversight, leaving potential gaps in safety enforcement.

In response to the incident, Mombasa County authorities have ordered immediate inspections of swimming pools in residential and holiday complexes. The directive includes mandatory display of depth markers and the presence of certified lifeguards, especially during peak tourist seasons.