Mwanza launches MV Bukondo services
MWANZA: MV Bukondo ferry, whose routes are set to be on Lake Victoria Islands in Ukerewe District, Mwanza region, has descended into the water today, September 16th, 2025.
It is one of the five government-owned ferries that have been constructed at Songoro Marine Workshop in Ilemela District, at a cost of nearly 28bn/-
“I’m here on behalf of the Mwanza residents to express our gratitude to President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who has given the funds for this project.
“The ferries are of most importance, provided that over 50 percent of the region is Lake Victoria water. Marine transport activities are therefore among the government’s top priorities to make sure the residents have what they deserve,” said the Regional Commissioner, Mr Said Mtanda, yesterday, during the MV Bukondo launching ceremony.
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He assured that the construction of the remaining ferries is at final stage, with the government also being set to have more similar projects in efforts to meet marine transport demand in Lake Victoria.
The Chama Cha Mapinduzi Mwanza Regional Chairperson, Mr Michael Lushinge, also commented on the government, affirming that it was a remarkable development that is going to fight marine transport woes to people in the Islands.
He also appreciated the work done by the contractor, saying that: “Implementation of these projects by local contractors means a lot, including strengthening of local currency circulation within the country.”
The Tanzania Electrical, Mechanical and Electronics Services Agency (TEMESA) Operations’ Director, Engineer Lukombe King’ombe, explained that MV Bukodo’s carrying capacity is 100 tons, which is equal to 200 passengers and 10 vehicles.
“The ferry will be operating in Bwiro and Bukombe islands,” he said.
The Director for Songoro Marine Limited, Mr Meja Songoro, commented that being trusted by the government to carry out those major projects was a source of pride and remarkable development to all local contractors.
“We assure not only quality works but also timely implementation of all projects,” he said.
