Uganda has inaugurated the MV Mpungu, a roll-on/roll-off (ro-ro) vessel equipped with a capacity to accommodate 21 trailer trucks laden with various cargo.
The launch of this vessel marks a significant milestone for the East Africa Lake region, promising to bolster lake transport and facilitate trade among key ports such as Port Bell, Mwanza, Jinja, and Kisumu.
The introduction of MV Mpungu aligns with the concerted efforts of Uganda, Tanzania, and Kenya to enhance connectivity and foster economic growth through the utilization of Lake Victoria’s shared waters.
The surge in cargo throughput at Kisumu Port, which handled 127,745 metric tons in 2023 compared to 69,456 metric tons in 2022, exemplifies the growing importance of inland waterway transport in the region.
MV Mpungu joins the fleet of vessels dedicated to advancing trade and connectivity across the lake region, heralding a new era of maritime commerce and cooperation.
