An air tragedy shook the Kenyan coast in the early hours of this morning when a light aircraft carrying twelve people crashed shortly after take-off from the tourist destination of Diani (Ukunda Airport) in Kwale County.

The accident, confirmed by the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA), occurred at around 05:30 in the Kwale Tsimba area, a region characterised by dense vegetation and hilly terrain. The aircraft was headed for the Kichwa Tembo lodge in the Maasai Mara reserve with a group of tourists on board.

According to initial reports, the causes of the crash have not yet been clarified, but sources close to the investigation cite poor visibility and adverse weather conditions as probable contributing factors.

The images released show the wreckage engulfed in flames and fragments of the aircraft scattered across a large area of bushland. The same footage shows the first responders battling through the flames and smoke in an attempt to reach any survivors. According to a subsequent statement, the authorities have declared that there are no survivors. The nationality of the tourists is not yet known, while the causes are likely to be linked to poor weather conditions.

The Kwale police commander, Abdillahi Alio, confirmed that the disaster occurred “moments after take-off” and added that the relevant government agencies are already on site to begin investigations.

“There were 12 people on board the aircraft. Government agencies are determining the cause of the accident and its impact,” the KCAA reiterated.

The accident comes at a time of high weather alert throughout the coastal region. Just two days ago, the Kenya Meteorological Department issued a warning to the population, urging coastal residents to prepare for heavy rains and strong winds associated with Tropical Storm Chenge, which was moving slowly across the Indian Ocean.

Recovery and investigation operations are still ongoing.