MWANZA: THE government is moving to restore MV Butiama services on the Mwanza-Ukerewe route following the arrival of repair equipment in Ukerewe yesterday.
Mwanza Regional Police Commander (RPC), Commissioner of Police (CP) Salum Hamduni, said the Tanzania Shipping Services Company (TASHICO) is expected to begin installing the equipment immediately, paving the way for the vessel to resume operations as soon as possible.
CP Hamduni made the announcement during his introductory visit to Ukerewe District, where he said efforts were underway to ensure the ferry returned to service without further delay.
He said restoring MV Butiama is crucial because it has been providing an essential transport link between Mwanza City and Ukerewe, facilitating the movement of passengers and goods to and from the island.
“We are committed to ensuring transport services improve so that residents can continue with their social and economic activities without unnecessary disruptions,” CP Hamduni said.
CP Hamduni also outlined progress on another key transport project, saying construction of a 900-metre bridge linking Kisorya and Rugezi is expected to begin after completion of its detailed design in 2022.
He said the bridge project will be accompanied by a seven-kilometre road, further improving connectivity for residents.
Beyond transport, CP Hamduni commended Ukerewe District Council for issuing 1.8bn/- in loans to women, youth and people with disabilities to support income-generating activities.
Ukerewe District Commissioner, Mr Christopher Ngubiagai, appealed to the central government to address challenges facing the district’s fishing sector, saying fishing remains one of the area’s main economic activities and sources of livelihood.
He also welcomed the government’s decision to construct a regional referral hospital in Ukerewe, saying the facility will enable residents to access specialised medical and surgical services without travelling long distances.
Ukerewe District Council Director, Mr Vincent Mbua, said the council still faces a shortage of about 4,500 employees, although the recruitment of 410 workers during the 2025/26 financial year reduced the staffing gap from 49 per cent to 45 per cent.
