Island communities that depend on the Bukakata–Bugoma route are yet to find a reason to smile after enduring nearly three months of intense traffic congestion following the temporary withdrawal of MV Pearl for standard repair and maintenance.
The vessel has been out of operation for close to three months, with about two of those months spent at Port Bell, Luzira, where a comprehensive Top Engine Overhaul was carried out.
The absence of the ferry has significantly affected the movement of passengers and goods to and from the islands, piling pressure on alternative transport arrangements.
According to the ferry’s Chief Engineer, John Baptist Lubega, the dry-docking of MV Pearl is not optional but a mandatory international requirement.
He explained that under the International Maritime Organization (IMO) guidelines, ferries are required to undergo dry-docking every three years to assess their structural integrity, mechanical condition, and overall seaworthiness.
“The whole purpose of dry-docking is to establish whether the vessel is still in good shape to safely operate on water,” Eng. Lubega said. “We carried out the Top Engine Overhaul first at Port Bell, and we are now finalizing works at Mwanza South.”
He added that several improvements have been made during the exercise, including the installation of a new power pack to enhance the ramp’s inclination during docking.
In addition, the vessel’s security and communication systems have been upgraded to meet current safety and operational standards.
All repair works on MV Pearl are being carried out under strict supervision from a recognized Classification Society, an international body responsible for certifying vessels that meet global operational standards.
Engineer Akhil from CRS has been closely monitoring the dry-docking process, providing technical recommendations to Mundao Engineering Associates, the firm contracted to execute the repairs.
To further ensure compliance, a team from the Ministry of Works and Transport traveled to Mwanza South to inspect the ongoing works.
The team included Eng. Fred Obala, Chief Operations Engineer; Barasa Fred Nderema, Acting Assistant Commissioner for Ships, Ports and Security; and Barnabas Twinomujuni, Senior Licensing Officer.
Their mission was to verify that the dry-docking meets both Uganda’s inland maritime laws and applicable international standards.
The Chairperson of the Board of Directors of Kalangala Infrastructure Services (KIS), Eng. Prof. John Ssenfuma, expressed satisfaction with the progress made so far.
He said the quality of work done on the vessel guarantees enhanced safety for passengers and their cargo once operations resume.
“We hired the best consulting firm, and the work done on the vessel so far is amazing,” Prof. Ssenfuma noted, adding that safety remains the top priority.
Meanwhile, Kalangala Infrastructure Services Acting Managing Director, Joseph Mulindwa, assured ferry users that every effort is being made to return MV Pearl to service as soon as possible.
“We understand the inconvenience our users have faced,” Mulindwa said. “We are doing everything possible to ensure the vessel is back in operation within the festive period.”
As islanders continue to endure the transport challenges, hopes remain high that the return of MV Pearl will soon restore smooth and reliable connectivity across the Bukakata–Bugoma route.
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