MV Mwanza Boosts East African Economic Activities
The recent introduction of the MV New Mwanza ferry signifies a pivotal advancement in East African economic activities, particularly for Tanzania’s Lake Zone. This modern vessel is set to enhance trade and transportation routes, fostering interconnectivity among neighboring countries.
Operational Routes and Capacity
Initially, the MV New Mwanza will operate between Mwanza, Kemondo, and Bukoba ports. Plans are in place to extend its services to Port Bell in Uganda and Kisumu in Kenya.
- Passenger capacity: 1,200
- Vehicle capacity: 20
- Cargo capacity: 400 tonnes
- Speed: 16 knots (30 km/h)
Economic Impact
This new ferry is expected to link domestic and regional markets effectively. It aims to decrease transport costs, attract investment, and support the economic growth of communities around Lake Victoria.
Said Mtanda, the Mwanza Regional Commissioner, indicated that about 3.6 million residents would benefit from the ferry. Mwanza contributes approximately 7.2 percent to Tanzania’s national economy, the second highest in the country. The improved lake transport will enable residents to engage more extensively in economic activities.
Unique Features of MV New Mwanza
Developed to comply with international safety and efficiency standards, the MV New Mwanza possesses unique capabilities for cargo transport in East Africa. Its substantial cargo capacity is a significant improvement over previously used vessels on Lake Victoria.
The ferry provides a dependable alternative to road transport, which is often burdened with high costs and delays.
Supporting Trade and Economic Growth
Eric Hamissi, chief executive of Tanzania Shipping Services Company (Tashico), highlighted ongoing discussions with the Tanzania Tourism Board. These discussions aim to promote the ferry for inland water tourism, aligning with President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s initiatives to boost the tourism sector.
Feedback from the Community
Economic analysts like Ally Mkino suggest that the ferry will significantly stimulate the Lake Zone economies by easing trade and transport. Its enhanced cargo capacity is expected to benefit sectors such as agriculture and fishing.
Traders in the Lake Zone have expressed optimism over the ferry’s potential to address transport challenges. Banana trader Mabula Kija noted that transport costs could decrease from Sh30,000 to Sh25,000 per tonne due to the ferry’s operational advantages.
Job Creation and Community Training
The MV New Mwanza project has also contributed positively to local economies by creating around 500 formal and informal jobs during its construction. Additionally, hands-on training has been provided for marine engineers and technicians.
Regional Cooperation and Future Prospects
Officials from Uganda and regional bodies have commended the ferry’s launch. It is seen as a means to enhance travel between Kampala and Mwanza and to catalyze tourism and regional cooperation.
In essence, the MV New Mwanza ferry represents not just a mode of transport but a robust catalyst for economic growth and regional integration in East Africa, specifically through its functionalities in trade, transport, and tourism.
