Government Acts to Resolve Ferry Issues in Mafia

The Minister of Construction, Innocent Bashungwa, has instructed key officials to prioritize the repair of the MV Kilindoni ferry.

Following a series of complaints from the community regarding the lack of reliable ferry services, Bashungwa contacted the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Construction, Ambassador Eng. Aisha Amour, and the Managing Director of the Transport and Electrical Engineering Agency (TEMESA), Lazaro Kilahala, directing them to establish a presence on the island to oversee the repair works until completion.

This intervention comes as residents expressed growing frustration over the absence of ferry services, which has forced many to resort to unsafe and unreliable means of transport. The MV Kilindoni ferry is a vital link for the island’s inhabitants, facilitating the movement of people and goods to and from the mainland.

During a recent public address, Minister Bashungwa provided insights into the suspension of ferry operations, which has left the community struggling to access essential services and transport agricultural products. “The government recognizes the importance of this ferry for the economic and social well-being of Mafia Island,” he stated, emphasizing the urgent need for reliable transportation.

The MV Kilindoni has been out of service for an extended period, causing significant disruptions in daily life for residents. The Minister’s directives aim to rectify these issues swiftly and efficiently, ensuring that local communities can once again benefit from safe transportation.

In his address, Bashungwa outlined plans for a team of engineers and technicians to be dispatched to Mafia Island to expedite the repair process. He reassured residents of the government’s commitment to enhancing infrastructure and services throughout the country, particularly in remote areas facing unique challenges.

Local community members welcomed the Minister’s prompt action, expressing hope that the repairs would be completed in a timely manner. Many residents shared their experiences of how the ferry’s absence has affected their lives, from increased transportation costs to difficulties in accessing medical care and transporting goods.

Bashungwa urged the community to remain patient as work on the ferry progresses and encouraged collaboration between residents and government agencies to ensure that the ferry service effectively meets the community’s needs.

The repair of the MV Kilindoni ferry is seen as a crucial step not only for transportation but also for the overall development of Mafia Island. The government’s proactive measures signal a commitment to improving infrastructure and ensuring that all citizens can access essential services.