By Ireen Mseteka

Likoma, September 19, Mana: Public Relations Officer for Ministry of Transport Watson Maingo says MV Chambo will soon resume its services on Lake Malawi.

In an interview Wednesday, Maingo said MV Chambo which is a Mozambican registered vessel is expected to resume its services on September 26, 2024, to reduce water transport challenges being encountered on the Lake.

"The resumption of this service will ease passenger congestion on the Likoma Island - Nkhata Bay stretch. Malawi stand to benefit as most of the traffic is from the Malawi side but we do not have enough fleet to service the traffic," said Maingo.

He said MV Chambo used to provide passenger service sailing on the lake but stopped in 2019 due to Covid 19 when the country borders were closed adding that since its launch in 2013, the vessel was being operated by Malawi Shipping Company.

Area Development Committee Chairperson for Likoma North, Frank Mkali said the coming in of MV Chambo will be a relief to the passengers as it will reduce congestion and other problems being faced on the lake.

“It is pathetic that other people are unable to walk properly because they were injured in the process of boarding the ship due to congestion and others have been losing their goods,” said Mkali.

He added that some people have been rejecting offers to work in Likoma due to the challenges encountered on the water, the situation he said has been affecting the workforce on the island.

Recently there have been an outcry from various stakeholders asking government to intervene by adding additional vessels on Lake Malawi hence reducing water transport challenges.