The commander of the German naval forces, Captain Gustav Zimmer, had placed Lieutenant Job Rosenthal, who had served aboard the cruiser until her sinking at the Battle of Rufiji Delta, in command of "Kingani". Rosenthal was ordered to investigate Belgian preparations for assembling and launching their large steamer "Baron Dhanis". Rosenthal took "Kingani" close to Kalemie, where work was underway to construct a harbour to base "Mimi" and "Toutou", but had to keep clear of two 12-pounder guns that were being used as shore batteries. Rosenthal returned early on 2 December and swam ashore to investigate. In doing so he discovered "Mimi" and "Toutou", but was captured before he could return to make his report. In his absence, Sub-Lieutenant Junge took over command of "Kingani". Still lacking detailed information on Belgian plans, Zimmer sent Junge to carry out a reconnaissance mission, and on 26 December "Kingani" again approached Kalemie.