Buyende, Uganda: The Government of Uganda has commissioned two ukungu–Kagwara–Kaberamaido (BKK) Ferries worth Shs42 billion, marking a major boost to transport, trade and regional integration across Busoga, Teso and Lango sub-regions.
The ferries, MV BKK 1 and MV BKK 2, will connect Bukungu in Buyende District, Akampala in Kaberamaido District and Kagwara in Serere District across Lake Kyoga, drastically reducing travel time and improving access to markets and social services.
The commissioning ceremony, held on Friday, February 20, at Bukungu Landing Site, was officiated by the Prime Minister of Uganda, Rt Hon Robinah Nabbanja, on behalf of President Museveni.
Addressing residents, Nabbanja urged communities to utilise the ferries for wealth creation and economic transformation. “Infrastructure must have production, and production must have wealth creation. MV BKK 1 and 2 are not merely vessels; they are economic instruments,” she said.
She noted that the ferries reduce travel time between Buyende, Kaberamaido and Serere from nearly eight hours by road to approximately one and a half hours by water under normal operating conditions.
“Make use of it economically,” she emphasized, adding that by linking eight districts across Busoga, Teso and Lango, the project strengthens regional integration and enhances market access.
Tanzania Pledges Technical Support
The High Commissioner of Tanzania to Uganda, H.E Maj. Gen. Paul K. Simuli revealed that the contractor, M/s Songoro Marine Transport Limited, will train Ugandan personnel to operate and maintain the ferries.
“There will be provision for training of personnel and acquisition of spare parts essential for operation and maintenance of the ferries and dredging equipment,” he said.
The design-and-build contract for the ferries and dredging equipment was signed on June 29, 2020, at a total cost of Shs42 billion. The project is expected to reach full completion by March 2, 2026, with current progress at 92%.
Modern Marine Standards
The ferries, designed by Global Maritime Consults Group, each have capacity for 310 passengers including crew, and are equipped with facilities for persons with special needs, washrooms and cafeteria services, crew rest rooms and full safety provisions compliant with international marine standards.
Following their floating on Lake Kyoga in 2023, the vessels underwent multiple safety tests and trials.
Deputy Prime Minister Rebecca Kadaga welcomed the project, noting that it fulfills a pledge made to Busoga by President Museveni. She, however, called for additional development projects in the region.
The commissioning ceremony was attended by district leaders from Buyende, Kamuli, Kaberamaido and Serere, Members of Parliament, and State Minister for Transport Fred Byabakama.
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