By Spy Uganda
President Museveni will today commission the 300-seater MV Sigulu, which will connect Namayingo mainland to Sigulu and Lolwe Islands in Lake Victoria.
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The Senior Presidential Press Secretary, Don Wanyama noted that the vessel will help islanders access social services, transport produce, boost fishing and reduce water transport mortality occasioned by rickety vessels/boats.
According to the Uganda National Roads Authority(UNRA), the ferry will connect islanders of Sigulu and Dolwe, over 50kms away from the mainland, Namayingo district, a distance previously sailed by canoes and small engine boats.
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“The 300 seater ferry is expected to boost economic growth by offering faster means of transporting produce from the islands and linking the population to markets on the mainland,” UNRA said.
The ferry according to UNRA is also designed with a kitchen area fitted with cooking appliances and a refrigerator for snacks and refreshments.
“MV Sigulu is at no cost to all passengers and provides safer means of transport on water,” UNRA added.
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MV Sigulu made its maiden expedition to the isolated island district in August 2020, a year after undergoing trials on Lake Victoria.
The vessel had since December 2018, docked at Walukuba-Masese Division in Jinja City, prompting questions.
MV Sigulu, a government undertaking, was constructed by JGH Marine, a Danish firm, at a cost of Shs16b to connect Sigulu and Lolwe Islands to Lugala mainland in Namayingo District.
