Laropi-Umi Ferry has resumed operations nearly three weeks after it was grounded for extensive maintenance works. Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) grounded the ferry that connects Moyo to Adjumani on the Albert Nile in the West Nile sub-region on August 21, 2023, to allow their engineers to carry out routine maintenance.
Allan Ssempebwa, the UNRA Communications Officer, told Uganda Radio Network that they resumed normal operations at around midday on Thursday. Ssempebwa noted that they decided to resume the ferry’s operations earlier than scheduled to facilitate the movement of people and goods between the two districts and neighboring South Sudan.
During the suspension of the ferry, locals have been using canoes or engine boats to cross the Albert Nile. JB Sam Asusi, the Moyo District Secretary for Finance and Administration, explained that the resumption of the ferry’s operations would help restore businesses that were adversely affected during the suspension. “We have longed for the revamping of the ferry. We appreciate UNRA for flagging off the ferry for the usual service,” Asusi noted.
Meanwhile, Robert Drichi, a resident of the Adjumani district, commended UNRA for restoring the ferry to its original condition, stating, “As local residents, we are very excited that the ferry is back in good working order.” The Laropi-Umi Ferry has a capacity of carrying 180 passengers and cargo of up to 120 tons per trip, as per the Certificate of Sea Worthiness.
It typically begins operations at 5:30 a.m. and concludes at 7 p.m. The vessel carries an average of 1,500 to 1,800 people per day during crossings, with a minimum of 12 trips and a maximum of 22 trips, according to information from the Ministry of Works and Transport.
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