Swim Safe Kenya graduates over 35 skilled lifeguards

Basic swimming, water safety, and rescue program Swim Safe Kenya has graduated over 35 proficient lifeguards during their latest lifesaving course held at Kenyatta University.

The course, which is the latest of a number of steps Swim Safe has undertaken to improve water safety, covered a wide curriculum that included among others: swimming techniques, pool maintenance, rescue procedures, CPR, and first aid.

In the list of successful graduates was Samuel Alukhala, a notable figure in sports administration, who doubles up as the President of the Kenya Roll Ball Federation.

"Water safety is a critical issue in our communities, and the skills these graduates have acquired are invaluable,” Douglas Okatso, Director of Swim Safe Kenya and Honorary Secretary of the Kiambu County Aquatics Association said. “They are now equipped to prevent drowning incidents and provide immediate assistance in emergencies, making our water bodies safer for everyone.”

Alongside Okatso in the group of facilitators were Victor King’ang’ai, Martin Maina and Kenyatta University Sports lecturer Mary Mwihaki, who hosted the entire event.

The newly certified lifesavers came from diverse backgrounds, including teachers, coaches, and community leaders, all united by a common goal: to enhance water safety in their communities.

"Seeing the determination and progress of these participants has been incredibly rewarding,” Okatso added. “Their hard work and perseverance has paid off, and they are now ready to make a difference.”

Swim Safe Kenya has been at the forefront of promoting water safety and drowning prevention in the region.

The organization's efforts extend beyond training lifesavers, encompassing public awareness campaigns, swimming lessons for children, and collaborations with local authorities to improve safety standards at public swimming facilities.

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