By alfred Zacharia
The Minister of Works, Abdallah Ulega, has instructed the Tanzania Electrical, Mechanical, and Services Agency (TEMESA) to conduct an assessment on the expected social and economic impacts of six new ferries currently under construction.
The ferries are expected to bring significant benefits to the communities they will serve once completed.
During an inspection tour at Songoro Shipyard in Mwanza, Minister Ulega revealed that the government has allocated over TZS 56 billion for the construction of the new ferries and the refurbishment of five others.
The minister highlighted that the ongoing projects mark a significant achievement under the leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who has prioritized the simultaneous construction of six ferries—five for Lake Victoria and one for the Indian Ocean.
He emphasized the importance of evaluating the benefits of this investment to the community and the nation.
"This project is not just about improving transportation; it’s about enhancing economic growth in the Lake Zone and across the country. We need a detailed assessment to understand its impact on people’s lives and livelihoods," he said.
Lazaro Kilahala, TEMESA's Chief Executive Officer, shared updates on the progress of the ferries.
One of the vessels, MV. UKEREWE, will operate between Kisorya in Bunda District, Mara Region, and Rugezi in Ukerewe District, Mwanza Region.
It will relieve pressure on the existing MV. UJENZI, which is struggling to accommodate increasing passenger numbers in the area.
Another vessel, MV. KOME II, is being built to serve the Nyakarilo-Kome route in Buchosa District, complementing the current MV. KOME, which has become insufficient due to rising demand.
Kilahala also noted that construction of a ferry for the Buyagu-Mbalika route in Sengerema District, Mwanza Region, is nearing completion.
This area previously lacked ferry services, forcing residents to use unsafe wooden boats to cross.
Hamis Tabasamu, the Member of Parliament for Sengerema, expressed his gratitude to President Samia Suluhu Hassan for prioritizing these projects.
He said the new ferries would improve safety and save lives for residents who previously relied on risky alternatives.
Songoro Marine Transport's Managing Director, Major Songoro, announced that the first deliveries of the new ferries are scheduled to begin in March this year.
The new ferries are anticipated to significantly improve transport services, promote trade, and enhance access to economic opportunities across the Lake Zone and other regions.
