WATER | TRANSPORT | MV PEARL 

KALANGALA - MV Pearl, one of the vessels that ply between Bukakata in Masaka and Bugoma in Kalangala has suspended operations for dry docking in Port bell Luzira for 2 months. 

The vessel had to suspend operations on August 4, 2022 however, due to Kenya General elections where experts reside, the vessel’s suspension was halted for three weeks which elapsed on August 26, 2022. 

According to Kalangala Infrastructure Services Limited (KIS), an entity that operates MV Pearl and MV Ssese, the vessel’s suspension of service is mandatory as far as water transport is concerned.

John Opondo, the Managing Director KIS said though the recent Kenya elections have affected the vessel's programmed maintenance, it is now set to leave for Luzira for a dry dock. 

"We are ready to handle the traffic by decreasing on waiting time of the remaining vessel, MV Ssese and we will accommodate all our customers at the time of their convenience," said Opondo.

He has, however, advised passengers to always come on time to avoid any inconvenience.   

The vessel's engines and diesel generators are always overhauled after 25,000 running hours making it 3 years. 

The last overhaul was held in 2019 according to engineer Musa Kimuli, the second vessel engineer.  

 MV Pearl's suspension of services will see MV Ssese adjusting its departure time from Bugoma starting at 6:30am from the usual time of 7am from Monday to Saturday and 8am on Sundays.

The vessel will also daily carry 14 return trips including one on either side for dangerous cargo which includes flammable materials and charcoal specifically. 

Other cargo transporters have been advised to use mid-day trips rather than morning and afternoon trips which are stormed by passengers and private vehicles.

Passengers led by Male Suleiman appealed to KIS for availing a timely MV Ssese schedule in order to plan their travels earlier.