On Friday, October 11, 2024, the State Minister for Transport, Hon. Fred Byamukama, officially commissioned the MV Ormiston water bus on Lake Victoria.

Representing the Minister at the event was the Commissioner for Maritime Administration, Robert Ntambi, who praised Globology Limited, a Kenyan company, for its efforts in improving water transport on the lake.

 The water bus, with a seating capacity of 150 passengers, will offer affordable fares and will connect Lugala and Busiro landing sites, along with the islands of Matolo in Uganda and Port Victoria in Kenya.

 This vessel is expected to boost economic growth by providing a faster, more reliable means of transporting goods from Kenya and Namayingo islands to mainland markets. It is also anticipated to strengthen the bilateral relationship between Uganda and Kenya, fostering improvements in trade, transport, tourism, and other key sectors.

 The launch event was attended by officials from both countries, including the Governor of Busia County, Kenyan Members of Parliament, Ugandan MPs, and local leaders.

The Commissioner for Maritime AdministrationRobert Ntambi getting off from a ferry during the commissioning at Matolo island, Sigulu sub county.

The district chairperson Ronald Sanya (holding a mic) speaking to residents at port Victoria in Kenya during the commissioning of MV Ormiston water bus. On the left is the district woman MP Margret Makoha, Hon. Okeyoh Babu (2^nd left) MP for Bukooli Islands, and Hon. Wanyama, MP Namayingo South.

 Kenya’s Member of Parliament for Budalangi constituency, Hon. Raphael Wanjala addressing residents at Matolo Islands