Ferry Service Suspension Sparks Concerns in Moyo and Adjumani
The Ministry of Works and Transport has announced that the ferry service between Moyo and Adjumani districts will be suspended for 18 days, from November 10 to November 28. This decision is part of a maintenance plan aimed at ensuring the safety and reliability of the MV Laropi ferry, which operates along the Laropi–Umi route.
In a letter dated November 3, the Permanent Secretary at the Works ministry, Mr Bageya Waiswa, stated that the suspension is necessary to allow the technical team to carry out essential maintenance works. The goal is to improve the ferry’s performance before more extensive repairs are undertaken.
The suspension has generated mixed reactions among locals, travelers, and traders, who are concerned about the disruption it may cause to their daily lives and businesses.
Impact on Daily Lives and Businesses
For many, the ferry is a crucial part of their routine. Mr Ronald Anyivu, a taxi driver on the Moyo–Adjumani route, shared his worries: “I depend on this route. I make at least two trips a day and save about Shs50,000 daily, which helps me provide for my family and pay school fees. I don’t know what I will do during this period. The 18 days are a lot for business.”
Mr Anyivu suggested that if the government cannot build a bridge soon, it should consider deploying an additional ferry to ensure services continue when one is under maintenance.
Calls for Infrastructure Development
Leaders in the West Nile Sub-region have long advocated for the construction of the Laropi Bridge on the River Nile to ease movement of people and goods. However, these efforts have not yet materialized.
Mr Simon Amajuru, Director of Zawadi Bus Services, said the company is evaluating alternative routes to determine whether buses bound for Arua can continue operating from Adjumani via Obongi. He explained, “We understand the risks involved. The closure will affect our operations, but we have no choice. For now, we may have to limit our service to Moyo and use the Obongi to Arua City route.”
He also mentioned that they are considering suspending buses for the direct route from Adjumani to Moyo, with the Arua-bound bus stopping in Moyo.
Challenges for Local Entrepreneurs
Ms Beatrice Ajiko, who runs a makeshift restaurant at the ferry landing site, expressed concerns about her business. She said, “My business relies heavily on passengers using the ferry. During the 18 days of the ferry’s closure, I will have to seek alternative means of earning a living.”
She added that she borrows money from lenders and repays it weekly, and the closure would disrupt her loan repayment schedule.
Alternative Routes Advised
The Ministry of Works and Transport has advised the public to use alternative routes during the suspension. These include:
- Moyo–Yumbe–Koboko–Arua–Karuma road
- Obongi-Adjumani-Atiak–Gulu route for travelers from Moyo
- Arua-Koboko-Yumbe-Moyo route for those traveling from Kampala to Moyo
- Obongi–MV Obongi ferry–Adjumani for those heading to Obongi
Safety Concerns and Future Plans
Mr Jude Adiga, a regular traveler on the Moyo-Adjumani route, emphasized the need for safer alternatives. He said, “Using the boats is risky because of the terrible wind that leads to capsizing. These boat riders also overload them, which is dangerous. And we had cases where hippopotamus could attack the boats and this can be risky.”
According to a December 2024 report from the Works ministry, the government has received financing from the African Development Bank for several infrastructure projects, including the construction of the Laropi-Moyo-Afoji Road (39.3km), Laropi Bridge (1.0km), and 5km of town roads, among others.