Tanzanian Prime Minister Dr Mwigulu Nchemba has launched the Mwanza, described as the largest freshwater passenger ship in Africa, in a significant boost to the country’s maritime transport and regional connectivity on Lake Victoria.
The state-of-the-art vessel, which commenced operations following the launch ceremony on Friday, is 92.6 metres long, 17 metres wide, and has a displacement of 3 500 tonnes across four decks.
It has capacity for 1 200 passengers, 20 vehicles, and 400 tonnes of cargo, achieving a speed of 16 knots (approximately 30 km/h). This enables a reduced travel time of six to seven hours on the Mwanza to Bukoba route, compared to eight to ten hours by existing vessels.
The ship was constructed at a cost exceeding 120 billion shilingi (approximately $47.3 million) by Korean contractors Gas Entec Ship-Building Engineering and Kang Nam Corporation, in collaboration with Suma JKT.
Tashico CEO Eric Hamissi highlighted the project's training benefits, noting that construction provided hands-on experience for Tanzanians in design, hull assembly, launching and trial voyages. He described Mwanza as "the largest freshwater vessel in Africa”.
Safety features include systems capable of sending alerts to rescue stations in Mwanza, Kisumu, Mombasa, Dar es Salaam and the open lake without captain intervention. Two large cargo doors facilitate faster loading and unloading.
Speaking at the launch Nchemba urged the Ministry of Transport to apply the skills acquired during construction to future projects.
He called on the Tanzania Shipping Company (Tashico) to work closely with stakeholders to guarantee passenger safety, proper maintenance and operations that promote diplomacy, trade and regional relations.
Transport Minister Makame Mbarawa said passenger and cargo rates would remain affordable and competitive, while Tashico will ensure reliable schedules, passenger safety, maintenance, and professional staffing.
Parliamentary Infrastructure Committee Chairperson Selemani Kakoso commended the government for completing the project. He called for continued infrastructure development, including the Kigongo-Busisi Bridge, Mwanza International Airport, and the Dodoma-Tabora section of the Standard Gauge Railway.
Nchemba instructed public institutions and local authorities to redirect funds from non-essential expenses to development projects.
The Mwanza strengthens trade and passenger links across Lake Victoria, supporting East African Community integration between Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda.
Source: The Citizen, Tanzania.
