The Ferry Services Contract in Kalangala expires on July 31, causing deep concern among residents who depend on this service. Since 2009, the government partnered with Kalangala Infrastructure Services (KIS) Limited to provide free ferry services between Bugoma Landing Site on Buggala Island and Luku Landing Site in Bukakkata, Masaka District. Furthermore, the government committed to paying an annual subsidy of Shs7 billion, allowing the ferry to operate as a free public road.
For over a decade, this agreement helped thousands of islanders, traders, school children, tourists, and government workers travel freely between the islands and the mainland. The two ferries, MV Pearl and MV Ssese, make 16 trips every day, forming a lifeline for the islanders.
As the expiry date nears, residents fear that ending the Ferry Services Contract in Kalangala could lead to ferry fees. This change would disrupt daily life for families, businesses, and travelers.
Patrick Musoke, a parent with two children commuting to the mainland for school, worries that education will become inaccessible. “How will our children attend school if ferry charges start suddenly?” he asked. Similarly, John Kayima Muzeeyi, chairperson of Mugoye Sub-county, warned that residents might lose access to health care in Masaka due to unaffordable transport costs.
Traders also face serious challenges. Moving a 100kg sack of produce currently costs Shs5,000. Without the subsidy, the price could triple. Sarah Namata, a dealer at Bugoma Landing Site, warned that basic goods would become too expensive. “If ferry fees start, many families will go hungry,” she said.
A 2011 proposal suggested ferry charges of Shs10,000 per person, Shs40,000 for small cars, and Shs70,000 or more for trucks. Residents say these costs are impossible for island communities to bear. Joseph Lubega, a frequent traveler, explained that islanders already spend Shs40,000 to connect to Masaka. Therefore, if ferry fees begin, the total could exceed Shs70,000, pushing many people beyond their limits.
Local taxi drivers also expressed concern. Justus Muchunguzi, who transports passengers between landing sites, said they already charge Shs15,000, which many passengers call expensive. “If ferry fees are added, fares must go up, and most people can’t manage that,” he explained.
The tourism sector also risks collapse. Gladys Nabukeera, the district tourism officer, fears higher costs will discourage domestic tourists. “School trips and local visitors often come via the Masaka route. If prices increase, we will lose them,” she warned.
Andrew Lajul Kilama, the KIS Managing Director, confirmed that the company submitted all required documents to the Ministry of Works and Transport, including a customer satisfaction survey. However, they have received no feedback. Kilama remains hopeful that the renewal will happen before the deadline. If not, KIS will work with the ministry to set prices before charging passengers.
While the subsidy ends, KIS still holds an operational license valid until 2030, meaning ferry operations will continue. Yet, without a renewed subsidy, free access may end, forcing users to pay fees.
On the government’s side, Barnabas Twinomujuni, an official from the Ministry of Works, reassured residents that KIS cannot suddenly introduce ferry fees. He confirmed that the ferry forms part of the Bukakkata–Kalangala Road, which guarantees public access. Twinomujuni stated that the contract renewal is in the final stages. Additionally, he hinted at possible service upgrades, including introducing night trips to serve more passengers.
Members of Parliament strongly oppose the idea of ferry charges. Julius Mukasa Opondo, the Bujumba MP, argued that ferries connect sections of national roads separated by water. “Charging people is like asking someone to pay for walking on a public road. It’s unfair,” he said. Hellen Nakimuli, the Kalangala Woman MP, added that introducing fees would harm the most vulnerable. “If the government delays and KIS starts charging, expectant mothers and poor families will suffer most,” she said. She confirmed plans to meet Gen Katumba Wamala, the Minister of Works, to resolve the issue quickly.
The Ferry Services Contract in Kalangala comes from a larger Shs178.5 billion ($50 million) public-private partnership launched in 2013. This project aimed to boost Kalangala’s economy by improving ferry services, expanding access to clean water, supplying electricity, and upgrading roads. It brought in MV Pearl and MV Ssese, replacing a small, unreliable ferry. The government covered fuel and maintenance, ensuring free transport for residents and goods. Over 70% of households on Buggala Island now enjoy access to clean water and electricity because of this initiative.
Kalangala District consists of 64 habitable islands scattered across Lake Victoria. The district is a popular destination for tourists, offering pristine beaches, bird watching, fishing, and breathtaking sunsets. The area’s beauty draws both local and international visitors.
As the Ferry Services Contract in Kalangala approaches expiry, thousands of lives hang in the balance. Without quick government action, the end of free ferry services could cause serious economic and social hardship. Residents, traders, students, and tourists wait anxiously, hoping for a swift resolution that keeps their vital transport lifeline free.
