Government suspends ferry services between Zengebe and Namasale on Lake Kyoga

The Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) has announced the temporary closure of the Zengebe-Namasale Lake Kyoga ferry route to carry out mechanical repairs on two ferries operating on the route.

The closure, which begins on July 22 and is expected to last until August 11, 2024, will allow for repairs to the ferries Kyoga 1 and Kyoga 2.

According to John B. Ssejemba, UNRA Director of Road Infrastructure Protection, the temporary closure is necessary to ensure the safety of passengers.

“We request patience from stakeholders as we work round the clock to restore ferry services. In the meantime, the public is advised to use the Kampala-Mbale-Soroti-Dokolo-Amolatar road link,” Ssejemba said in a communication to the Nakasongola District LC5 Chairman on July 19, 2024.

Kyoga Ferry 2, commissioned in 2016, experienced a mechanical failure in its propulsion system, while Kyoga Ferry 1, commissioned by President Museveni in 2012, experienced water leaks on several pontoons, raising safety concerns.

Engineers have since recommended halting operations until the problems are resolved.

UNRA officials assure that spare parts have been ordered to ensure the ferries are repaired and safe for normal operations.

The two ferries, which dock at Zengebe in Nakasongola District and Namasale Pier in Amolatar District, offer passengers a shorter route across Lake Kyoga, covering a distance of 9.1 kilometres.

The Kyoga Ferry 2 operates four routes daily and carries 16 vehicles and 120 passengers.

“We apologize for the inconvenience and thank the public for their understanding as we work to ensure the safety of our passengers,” UNRA officials said.