Financial constraints delay MV Albert Nile 1 ferry repairs

_________________

Travelers who majorly depend on MV Albert Nile 1 ferry in Buliisa and Pakwach have called on the government through the Uganda National Roads Authority [UNRA] to expedite the repairs of the Wanseko-Panyimur ferry.

The MV Albert Nile 1 has been grounded for almost awaiting repairs. 

This ferry serves as a crucial transport link, connecting Wanseko in Buliisa and Panyimur in Pakwach districts and facilitates businesses across several towns into the Democratic Republic of Congo.

In an interview with Kabalega FM Travelers at Wanseko landing site, Beatrace Ayikoru, one of the travelers who was heading to Umyer trading centre in Nebbi district, noted that the boat fares have since been inflated. 

Liliana Chandiru, a resident of Runga landing site in Hoima district who used a boat to cross today from Panyimur to Wanseko, said it's becoming hard for them to carry out businesses since all the profits are paid to the boat owners as boat charges.

Several traders from the Lake Albert region rely on this service daily for their business, more so when travelling to Panyimur market, which is always every Monday and personal travel needs.

Travelers are charged sh10,000 per person and between sh5,000 to sh10,000 for luggage to cross by boat.

Alan Ssempebwa, one of the public relations officers in the Ministry of Transport, disclosed that repairs have been delayed by financial constraints.