Government Launches New Ferry Route to Boost Transport in Kalangala.

The government has officially launched a new ferry route connecting Port Alice in Nakiwogo to Kiwungu Bukasa in Kalangala District, in a move expected to ease travel and boost economic activity for island communities.

The new route was unveiled by the Minister of Works and Transport, Gen. Katumba Wamala, who noted that improving water transport remains a key priority in supporting trade, tourism, and social services in island districts.

The initiative comes through a partnership between the government and Nation Oil Distributors, the private operator of the MV Kalangala. Under this agreement, an additional vessel, the MV Nodl, has now been introduced to complement existing ferry services as the government works on commissioning a larger and more permanent ship.

Gen. Katumba Wamala praised the partnership as a practical solution for addressing the transport challenges faced by residents of Kalangala.

“The people of this region rely heavily on water transport. This service will not only make movement more convenient but will also open up more opportunities for trade and tourism,” he said during the launch.

The MV Nodl will operate two trips per week, carrying both passengers and cargo. Residents who often struggle with unreliable or costly lake transport welcomed the new service, saying it would make the movement of goods, especially farm produce, more predictable.

Local leaders expressed optimism that improved connectivity will encourage investment and support livelihoods, particularly for fishing communities and small business owners.

As the government prepares to introduce a larger vessel in the near future, the new route marks a significant step forward in strengthening marine transport and linking Kalangala more closely to the mainland.