Mombasa, KENYA: Kenya Ferry Services Limited on Tuesday told a Mombasa high court that the new ferry Mv Jambo set for launch in early August, was safe for commuters.
Through their lawyer Nani Muigai, KFS confirmed to the court that Mv Jambo was audited by Marine experts in Turkey where the vessel was constructed.
Although Mr.Muigai admitted that there were some defects with the vessel, he said the matter was resolved before it was tested.
BONRIZ INSURANCE MARINE SURVEYORS LIMITED had earlier moved to court seeking court to stop Kenya Ferry Limited from procuring new ferries constructed with poor quality material.
The company was hired to provided consultancy services for the project of supervision and inspection of ferries being constructed by Ozata.
READ MORE: Mombasa court halts procurement of new ferries from Turkey over poor quality
KFS has however accused the petitioner for not demonstrating to the court the defects in the new ferry.
“Engines used were Volvo Penta and not Scania, because they are superior and have a longer warranty compared to others,” said Muigai.
The petitioner wants the court to stop designing and building one ferry over the allegation of materials being used were of poor quality.
Mr.Muigaih said if the orders petitioner is seeking are granted, tax payers are going to lose about sh. 300 million since ferries were already purchased.
The new ferry Mv Jambo is expected to be launched in early August by president Uhuru Kenyatta.
The Court temporary stopped Kenya Ferry Services from launching the new ferry until August 1st, when the court will deliver its ruling.
