By Prosper Makene
Built in Germany in 1913 and assembled by hand on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, MV. Liemba has been more than a ferry — it’s been a lifeline. Now, after years of silence, the vessel is being reborn. With upgrades complete by mid-2026, its return promises to reconnect communities and reignite trade across one of Africa’s oldest transport routes.
Residents of Kigoma, Katavi, and Rukwa regions are set to benefit once the historic MV. Liemba completes rehabilitation and resumes official service in July 2026 on Lake Tanganyika. As of early May, the overhaul had reached 70% completion.
The restoration of the decades-old vessel, vital to the economy of Tanzania’s western corridor, is part of the Sixth Phase Government’s efforts under President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan to improve transport services, boost trade, and raise living standards for communities along Lake Tanganyika.
MV. Liemba suspended operations in 2018 due to engine and infrastructure deterioration. The major rehabilitation began in July 2024 at a cost of more than USD 13 million and is scheduled for completion in July 2026. The project is being implemented by Tanzania Shipping Agency Corporation, with technical support from international partners.
Speaking on the project’s progress, Project Manager Elias Kivara said the refurbishment has reached 70%, with all preparations for completing the remaining work finalized.
He noted that all new equipment ordered from abroad has already arrived, reflecting the government’s commitment to finishing the project on time without delays.
“All the required equipment for installation on the vessel has arrived. The remaining work is installation and final painting, so we expect to conduct sea trials in June 2026 and have the vessel officially resume service in July 2026,” Kivara said.
For over a century, MV. Liemba has linked remote lakeside communities, supported trade, and carried both people and goods across the 673 km stretch of the lake. Its return is therefore seen as both an economic and cultural milestone.
The return of MV. Liemba is expected to significantly ease passenger travel and cargo transport between Kigoma, Katavi, Rukwa, and neighboring countries including Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Zambia, which share Lake Tanganyika. The lake serves as a critical transport corridor for a region with limited road infrastructure.
Small and medium-sized traders are listed among the biggest beneficiaries, as they will be able to transport goods at lower costs compared to road transport, which is often more expensive due to long distances and poor road conditions.
According to Eng. Kivara, many traders, especially those dealing in food crops such as maize, beans, and rice from Kigoma, Rukwa, and Katavi, have faced high transport costs that reduce profit margins. The vessel’s return will help lower logistics costs, increase trade volumes, boost household incomes, and stimulate economic growth in the western zone.
Beyond transport services, the vessel has been upgraded to modern standards. Improvements include new passenger seating, air-conditioned cabins, a recreation area, and an onboard beverage service. The vessel will accommodate more than 530 passengers, and safety equipment has been enhanced to meet international maritime standards. These upgrades aim to make travel safer, more comfortable, and more reliable for both passengers and cargo.
Residents of the region believe the return of MV. Liemba will spur investment, create jobs for youth, and open new economic opportunities in trade, tourism, and transport. Local authorities also expect increased cross-border trade and tourism activity once the vessel resumes regular voyages.
The initiative continues to demonstrate the Sixth Phase Government’s commitment to ensuring that citizens across all parts of the country access improved transport services and participate fully in economic development activities. It also aligns with Tanzania’s broader agenda of strengthening regional integration and leveraging Lake Tanganyika as a gateway for trade within the Great Lakes region.
