The launch of the MV New Mwanza ferry marks a concrete step in the implementation of President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s development agenda, Prime Minister Dr. Mwigulu Lameck Nchemba has said, as the government pushes to modernise marine transport on Lake Victoria.
Speaking shortly after inaugurating the vessel at the South Port in Mwanza on Friday, January 23, 2026, Dr. Mwigulu said the commissioning of the modern ship reflects both the government’s capacity to deliver large-scale infrastructure projects and the President’s long-term vision to improve transport, trade and regional connectivity.
He described the launch as a milestone that demonstrates Tanzania’s growing technical and financial ability to implement complex development initiatives that directly benefit citizens.
“This event shows our national capacity to implement major development projects and highlights President Samia’s leadership in translating ambitious visions into tangible progress for Tanzanians,” Dr. Mwigulu said.
The MV New Mwanza, built by South Korea-based Gas Entec Shipbuilding in collaboration with Tanzania Shipping Agencies Corporation (TASHICO), is equipped with modern maritime technology and features a four-deck design.
It is currently the largest passenger and cargo ferry operating in the Great Lakes region.
The vessel has a carrying capacity of 1,200 passengers, 400 tonnes of cargo, 20 light vehicles, and three heavy trucks per trip.
It is expected to significantly improve transport efficiency along the Mwanza–Bukoba route, reducing travel time to approximately six hours.
Dr. Mwigulu said the government remains committed to strengthening water transport safety, reliability and affordability, noting that improved marine infrastructure is critical for boosting trade, tourism and economic activity across lake-zone regions.
“Government is determined to ensure that marine transport is safe, reliable and beneficial to citizens,” he said.
The project cost USD 51.83 million (about Sh120.56 billion), underscoring the scale of public investment in modernising Tanzania’s transport sector.
The commissioning of MV New Mwanza is part of a broader strategy to revitalise lake transport, enhance regional integration, and support economic growth in northern and western Tanzania.
The ferry is expected to play a key role in easing passenger movement, lowering transport costs, and strengthening commercial links between Mwanza, Bukoba and neighbouring countries within the Great Lakes corridor.