Tanzanian Prime Minister Dr Mwigulu Nchemba has launched the Mwanza , described as the largest freshwater passenger ship in Africa, in a significant boost to the countrys maritime transport and regional connectivity on Lake Victoria.
The state-of-the-art vessel, which commenced operations following the launch ceremony on Friday, is 92.6 metres long, 17 metres wide, and has a displacement of 3 500 tonnes across four decks.
It has capacity for 1 200 passengers, 20 vehicles, and 400 tonnes of cargo, achieving a speed of 16 knots approximately 30 km/h. This enables a reduced travel time of six to seven hours on the Mwanza to Bukoba route, compared to eight to ten hours by existing vessels.
