Get ready for a game-changer on Lake Victoria! A new ferry route is set to revolutionize travel across the lake, and it's an exciting development for Uganda's transportation network.
On November 5th, 2025, Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala, the Minister of Works and Transport, unveiled a fresh initiative: MV Rafiki, a ferry capable of accommodating 250 passengers. This vessel will bridge the gap between Bukasa Island in Kalangala District and the mainland, specifically connecting Entebbe (Nakiwogo) and the Bukasa Islands.
But here's where it gets interesting: this project is a collaboration between the Ugandan government and Nation Oil Distributors Ltd (NODL), marking a significant public-private partnership. The aim? To provide a safe, affordable, and reliable water transport system between Entebbe/Kampala and the Kalangala Islands.
Gen. Wamala emphasized the government's dedication to harnessing water transport as a sustainable means of connectivity. He shared an ambitious plan to expand ferry services on Lake Victoria, mentioning the acquisition of two large-capacity ferries with a capacity of over 500 passengers. These ferries will enhance connectivity between the islands of Koome, Damba, and Busi to the mainland.
This development is a step towards improving transportation infrastructure and accessibility in Uganda. It's an exciting prospect for locals and tourists alike, offering a more efficient and enjoyable way to travel across Lake Victoria.
And this is the part most people miss: water transport is not just about convenience; it's about unlocking economic opportunities and fostering community development. By investing in water transport, the government is investing in the future of these island communities.
So, what do you think? Is this a step in the right direction for Uganda's transportation network? Do you see the potential for economic growth and community development through water transport initiatives? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
