East Africa Marine Transport (EAMT) has taken a major step toward creating a more sustainable and efficient logistics solution for Lake Victoria with the commissioning of MV MPUNGU, the lake’s first scheduled roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) freight vessel.
Offering faster and safer crossings with reduced carbon emissions, the fuel-efficient vessel is set to revolutionize regional trade by cutting journey times from several days to mere hours. It will also play a significant role in the decarbonization of the region’s transport sector.
Owned by East Africa Marine Transport (EAMT) and operated by Grindrod Logistics Africa – Uganda (GLAU), a leading provider of sustainable maritime logistics in the region, MV MPUNGU provides a greener, safer alternative to the congested road freight system. This breakthrough will benefit businesses across Uganda, Tanzania, and beyond.
The vessel was constructed at a purpose-built facility in Uganda and recently secured accreditation from FAST-Infra, an industry-led labelling system that recognizes and measures sustainable infrastructure assets worldwide.
Robinah Nabbanja, Prime Minister of Uganda, spoke on behalf of President Yoweri Museveni called the vessel a milestone for East Africa, highlighting its potential to advance trade and environmental goals while strengthening regional ties.
MV MPUNGU reduces transport times across Lake Victoria to just 18 hours, compared to the current three-to-four-day journey by road. With the capacity to carry up to 21 fully loaded freight vehicles equivalent to up to 1,000 tonnes of freight per crossing, it provides a cost-effective, efficient, and low-emission alternative for regional logistics. By alleviating road congestion, the vessel also reduces fuel costs and mitigates risks such as theft and driver fatigue.
The approximately USD 20 million project was made possible with funding from the Private Infrastructure Development Group (PIDG) through its project development specialist, InfraCo, and regional logistics leader Grindrod Limited. PIDG has committed over USD 41 billion to develop and deliver infrastructure projects since its inception.
Speaking on behalf of EAMT, Rodney Seema, PIDG Regional Asset Management Lead for InfraCo, said, “This vessel represents a collaborative achievement that redefines the logistics landscape for East Africa. With MV MPUNGU, we’re not just offering faster, greener transport options; we’re creating opportunities for regional trade to thrive. On behalf of EAMT, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the investors, shipbuilders, partners, and local communities who contributed to the success of this project.”
Built to international standards by SECO Marine (U) Ltd, an Alpha Group company, at its purpose-built shipyard in Entebbe, Uganda, MV MPUNGU has also benefitted from the expertise of Danish company OSK Design and Indian firm S&O Maritime, along with grant funding from the European Union Africa Infrastructure Trust Fund (EU-AITF). The successful collaboration between regional and international partners enabled the vessel to enter commercial operation just 29 months after the keel was laid.
The 96-meter-long vessel undertakes a minimum of two scheduled crossings per week between Port Bell, Uganda, and the port of Mwanza, Tanzania. EAMT plans to expand its operations with additional sailings and future routes, including potential connections to Kenya. Discussions are also underway regarding the use of alternative fuels to further reduce emissions.
Currently, existing road infrastructure poses a major barrier to trade expansion in sub-Saharan Africa. Cross-border routes are often disrupted, and transporting goods solely by road is prohibitively expensive for regional traders and producers. MV MPUNGU’s reduced journey times not only prevent spoilage of fresh produce but also boost trade and support the achievement of sustainable development goals related to infrastructure upgrades.
The potential to transform Lake Victoria into a key trade route has been acknowledged by the Heads of State of the East African Community (EAC) and the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), who have committed to adopting an integrated approach to diversifying trade routes.
EAMT contributes to the objectives of the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), unlocking new economic opportunities. Estimates suggest that full implementation of the AfCFTA will require significant investment in marine transport infrastructure, including the addition of 100 more vessels.
Registered under the Ugandan flag, MV MPUNGU boasts modern sleeping quarters and dining areas for drivers, allowing them to rest and recharge during the crossing. Classed by Bureau Veritas, MV MPUNGU operates in compliance with International Maritime Organization (IMO) standards for Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), security of shipping, and the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL).
EAMT has also trained a cohort of 30 mariners, 30% of whom are women, to work aboard MV MPUNGU and other vessels in the region. Four individuals are continuing their training at the Dar es Salaam Maritime Institute to become officers.
Govt Launches First Scheduled Roll-On/Roll-Off Freight Vessel
