Tanzania has marked a significant achievement in maritime transport with the launch of the MV New Mwanza. This inland passenger and cargo vessel is described as the largest of its kind in Africa and was constructed entirely in Tanzania. The project, which began in 2019, cost approximately $51.8 million.
MV New Mwanza: A Major Milestone for Lake Victoria Trade
The vessel’s construction involved collaboration between two South Korean companies, Gas Entec and KangNam Corporation, along with the local Tanzanian firm, Songoro Marine Transport. Delays during the construction process were largely attributed to funding challenges faced by the government.
Specifications and Capacity
- Length: 92.6 meters (304 feet)
- Width: 17 meters (56 feet)
- Weight: 3,500 tonnes
- Passenger Capacity: 1,200
- Cargo Capacity: 400 tonnes, including heavy trucks and light vehicles
- Speed: 16 knots
The MV New Mwanza is now recognized as a key asset for facilitating regional trade across Lake Victoria, which is bordered by Tanzania, Uganda, and Kenya. The lake is a vital resource, supporting millions through fishing, transport, and trade. However, maritime capacity and safety have long been identified as critical issues hindering economic integration in the region.
Impact on Trade and Tourism
The introduction of MV New Mwanza is expected to significantly enhance trade efficiency. The vessel will reduce travel time between key ports, such as Kisumu in Kenya and Port Bell and Jinja in Uganda. In addition to trade, it is anticipated that the vessel will also bolster tourism and improve safety on Lake Victoria, which serves as an important economic corridor in East Africa.
Tanzania’s Prime Minister, Mwigulu Nchemba, emphasized the importance of the vessel in promoting economic diplomacy and regional cooperation. He noted that the successful construction of MV New Mwanza is a testament to Tanzania’s industrial and technical expertise.
Furthermore, the skills developed during this project are expected to be leveraged in future shipbuilding endeavors, including those aimed at serving Lake Tanganyika and enhancing connectivity with the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, and Zambia.
