Seco Marine is Building a Ferry to Halve Travel Time to Tanzania
World Business Journal talks to Mohanlal Pillai, Project Director at Seco Marine, about the new roll-on-roll-off ferry from Uganda to Tanzania and training local talent in marine-related skills.
Could you provide updates on the recent construction progress of the 96-meter-long roll-on-roll-off ferry?
The project involves constructing a Roll-On/Roll-Off (Ro-Pax) ferry for vehicles and passengers for the East African Maritime Transport Company (EAMT) between Port Bell, Uganda and Mwanza, Tanzania.
It’s backed by stakeholders InfracoAfrica, part of the Private Infrastructure Development Group (PIDG), and Grindrod, South Africa.
The contract was finalised in November 2021, and the notice to proceed was issued on December 21, initiating a 28-month delivery period. Bureau Veritas, an international classification society, oversees the design and construction. The main hull construction is complete, and the ship’s launch is scheduled for 2024.
We are starting the second phase of infrastructure development, including a second slipway for vessel repair and maintenance, requiring an investment of $3-4 million. Each vessel can carry up to 1,000 tonnes, accommodating around 21 trucks and 60 passengers, not including the crew. The journey from Port Bell, Uganda, to Mwanza, Tanzania, will take approximately 11 to 13 hours, significantly less than the 24-hour road journey. This vessel will reduce transportation time, offering a faster, more cost-effective option, especially for Uganda’s agricultural and perishable goods, enabling quicker market access in Tanzania or Kenya.
What impact does the project have on local talent and maritime education?
Around 70% of our workforce consists of local talent, highlighting our commitment to knowledge transfer. We’re focused on advancing technical skills and have recently signed an MOU with Busitema University, which is establishing a maritime institute. This partnership will offer practical training for marine-related fields and integrate expert lectures into the curriculum, bridging the gap between theory and practice.
In 2024, we plan to launch a Skill Development School, aiming to train about 100 individuals annually in fabrication, welding, and similar skills. This program will provide certification and aims to recruit and retain the most skilled individuals.
What transformative effects will this project have on a landlocked nation like Uganda?
Landlocked countries like Uganda face challenges with costly air transport and congested roads. Maritime transport offers a cost-effective, eco-friendly trade alternative. Considering vessels for tourism could open opportunities to explore Lake Victoria’s islands from Entebbe airport. With the lake underutilised, expanding maritime infrastructure could improve transportation options, benefiting business and tourism while promoting economic growth and enhancing regional tourism experiences.
