Seco Marine’s Ugandan-Built ‘M.V. Mpungu’ RoPax Ferry Begins Operations on Lake Victoria
World Business Journal talks to Mohanlal Pillai, Project Director at Seco Marine, about the launch of the M.V. Mpungu, a 96-meter ROPAX ferry built at their shipbuilding yard in Entebbe, Uganda. This vessel demonstrates the potential of Uganda’s emerging maritime industry and aims to enhance regional connectivity and trade by linking Uganda’s Port Bell with Tanzania’s Mwanza port, reducing travel time from 3–4 days to just 18 hours.
Has the M.V. Mpungu roll-on/roll-off freight vessel officially started its operations from Port Bell to Mwanza, Tanzania?
The M.V. Mpungu was handed over in November 2024 after receiving the necessary certificates from Bureau Veritas for construction and the International Register of Shipping for safety and compliance on behalf of the Uganda Maritime Authority.
East Africa Marine Transport conducted trial runs between Mwanza and Port Bell for 2 months. The official launch took place on 30th January 2025 at Port Bell. The client is now reviewing the economic performance to decide on the construction of a second vessel, as per the initial feasibility study.
The plan involves operating 2 vessels for daily service, with 3 cargo trips per week, meeting strong client interest. Discussions are also ongoing about building a variety of vessels for different cargo needs.
Has the shipbuilding facility in Entebbe opened up other opportunities in the equipment rental space?
We have specialized, high-value equipment at the yard and are mobilizing some of it, like modular barges and cranes, to Lake Albert for projects in the oil and gas industry.
The equipment investment in this yard is around $4–5M, and we offer specialized equipment that isn’t readily available elsewhere in the country. We’ve secured a contract to construct a platform for fresh water intake from Lake Albert for a cooling system, which involves creating a platform on the lake. We are also performing ship piling to build a small jetty.
We are confident in the opportunities within the oil and gas sector and are in advanced discussions for new, high-value work in this area.
What are the key lessons learned from this project?
One key lesson is the importance of advanced planning and ensuring that all necessary materials are available for the project. Initially, we were concerned about manpower, but we quickly overcame this issue. I’ve been impressed by how rapidly Ugandan workers develop skills. They learn fast and excel when respected and encouraged. I’ve worked globally, but the loyalty of Ugandan workers stands out among the best I’ve ever encountered.
