Ferry service cuts transport costs for communities around lake Kyoga
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In Uganda, the Bukungu-Kagwara-Kaberamaido (BKK) ferry service began operating on Lake Kyoga in February, providing free transport for passengers and cargo between Serere and neighbouring districts.
For decades, people traveling between Teso and Busoga relied on expensive private speedboats. Now, the government-operated ferries MV BKK 1 and MV BKK 2, though currently only one is running, offer a cost-effective alternative, carrying up to 310 passengers and vehicles.
George William Ajoi, a fisherman with 47 years of experience, noted the service has eased movement for fishermen, families, and traders, who previously paid at least 10,000 Ugandan shillings to cross the lake. Transporting cattle by speedboat used to cost between 30,000 and 50,000 shillings per animal, but is now free on the ferry.
Bernard Odikor, a local leader, said the ferry has lowered transport costs for people in Serere, Kaberamaido, and Buyende, and boosted trade in livestock, grain, and produce. He estimates over 2,000 passengers use the ferry weekly. The government also stationed a rescue speedboat ambulance at Kagwara landing site to assist those in distress and transport patients.
Odikor hopes the government will complete a second ferry and improve the road connecting Kagwara to the wider transport network to further expand business opportunities. He also requested improvements to facilities at the Kagwara landing site, including seating, lighting, and sanitation.
