Tana River: 28 Dead, Scores Missing As Boat Carrying Over 50 Capsizes At Kona Punda

• Garissa senator Ali Roba said 28 lives have been lost while many are still unaccounted for after a boat capsized in Tana River
• The boat, which was carrying more than 50 people, capsized while trying to cross River Tana, which was flooded
• Kenya Red Cross said 23 passengers had been rescued by 9.50pm, with the search for the missing people ongoing

Amos Khaemba, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings more than three years of experience covering politics and current affairs in Kenya.

Tana River - 28 people have died following the tragic incident where a boat capsized at Kona Punda.

On Sunday, April 28, a boat carrying more than 50 people capsized while trying to cross River Tana, which was flooded.

How many people have died in Tana River tragedy?

Sharing the heartbreaking news, Garissa senator Ali Roba said 28 lives have been lost while many are still unaccounted for.

"It is with a heavy heart that I reach out during this profoundly difficult time. The devastating floods across Kenya have brought unimaginable sorrow, claiming over seventy lives and continuing to impact many more. Today, the tragic incident in Mororo-Garissa, where a boat capsized, has claimed 28 more lives, with more reported missing, deepening this national grief," Roba said.

In his message, Roba sent his condolence message to the families of the affected victims, saying God should give them strength during this difficult time.

"In this moment of immense loss, I extend my deepest condolences to all those affected. May the souls of the departed find peace in Jannatul Firdows. As we come together in solidarity and mourning, please know that my thoughts are with you. May the Almighty Allah provide strength and solace to the bereaved families and all those suffering during these testing times," he added.

Meanwhile, the Kenya Red Cross said 23 passengers had been rescued by 9.50pm, and the search for missing people is ongoing.

"23 people have been rescued and are currently receiving care at Madogo Hospital, while others are still missing," the Kenya Red Cross said.

How two people died in Homa Bay

In other sad news, tragedy struck Kisaku village in Homa Bay county as the community mourned the death of two people in the wake of torrential rains and flash floods.

Among the victims were a mother and her child, who were swept away while travelling towards the town on Sunday, April 28.

In addition to the fatalities, two individuals sustained injuries, and two others remain unaccounted for, compounding the anguish of the village.

According to Ramogi TV, the deluge has forced 50 households to flee, adding to the urgency of the situation.

What you need to know about flood deaths

• On Wednesday, April 24, NTV reported that more than 12 people have died in Nairobi and Kajiado counties due to heavy rainfall.
• A matatu swept away with passengers onboard in Kasarani.
• The meteorologist warned residents in many areas of the region regarding the anticipated heavy rainfall on Sunday, April 28.

Proofreading by Otukho Jackson, a multimedia journalist and copy editor at TUKO.co.ke