Travellers urge government to expedite repairs on Wanseko–Panyimur Ferry
“We apologize to all travellers and assure them this situation is not intentional. We are financially constrained at the moment,” he explained.
Buliisa: Travellers and business operators in Buliisa and Pakwach districts are appealing to the Ministry of Works and Transport to expedite repairs on the MV Albert Nile I ferry, commonly known as the Wanseko–Panyimur Ferry.
The ferry has been out of operation since March this year due to ongoing maintenance.
The vessel is a vital transport link across Lake Albert, connecting the districts of Buliisa and Pakwach and serving as a key conduit for trade to and from the neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo.
Its absence has disrupted daily life and commerce, with many residents now forced to rely on boats or travel long, costly alternative routes.
Beatrace Ayikoru, a silverfish trader from Umyer Trading Centre in Nebbi district, shared her frustrations. “I now spend about Shs20,000 on transport to and from the market. This is too much because I make little profit, and now most of it goes into transport,” she lamented.
Similarly, Liliana Chandiru, a resident of Runga landing site in Hoima district, said the situation is becoming unbearable. “We are losing all our profit to boat owners who charge high fees. It’s hard to keep doing business like this.”
Jonan Mugume, a frequent commuter, said he avoids sailing and now incurs high transport costs driving through Murchison Falls National Park, a route he only resorts to because the ferry service was previously free.
Boat operators currently charge Shs10,000 per person to cross the lake, with additional charges for luggage depending on weight and size, costs that continue to burden local traders and families.
In response, Allan Ssempebwa, the Ministry of Works and Transport’s spokesperson, acknowledged the delays. “We are still mobilizing financial resources to begin the repairs,” he said, adding that the ministry is aware of the inconveniences caused and asked for patience.
“We apologize to all travellers and assure them this situation is not intentional. We are financially constrained at the moment,” Ssempebwa explained.
He also urged travellers to consider alternative routes, such as travelling through Murchison National Park via the Masindi-Kampala and Masindi-Buliisa-Hoima-Kampala roads.
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